The Relationship Between Ethiopia and Sudan: The Case of GERD (2011-2023)
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Date
2013-12-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This paper is about the Case of GERD in the relationship between Ethiopia and Sudan from 2011 to 2023. Following the historical commencement of the Project in 2011, it significantly changed the historical relationship between the upstream and downstream and also became the center of the relationship between Ethiopia and Sudan. Carefully following a series of events and negotiations, starting from 2011, analyzing its impact on the relationship between Ethiopia and Sudan is thoroughly undertaken. In the course of this research, qualitative research methods and exploratory research methodology are employed. Primary and Secondary data collection methods are employed, and through unstructured interviewswith experts and officials from different government institutions and individuals, primary data are collected. These transformations are mainly continuing the counter-hegemonic struggles that began before the inauguration of GERD, and for the first time in history, the downstream countries are compelled to discuss the dam by Ethiopia’s agenda of using the water resource. Additionally, Sudan shifted its position throughout the negotiation, one time supporting Ethiopia and another time against Ethiopia. This further complicates the negotiation process. Coupled with internal political problems, border issues, and geopolitical contention in the region, Sudan shifted its position to gain political and economic support, but this hampers the relationship with Ethiopia and the negotiation process. There was a change of leadership in both countries, contrary to what was expected, and this became a problem as the Sudan military leaders took the Egyptian side. With the filling of the dam going, Sudan pushesnegotiations to gain a bargain for the future dam operation. This research paper could be a spring board for future research on the area as the case is still ongoing, and also, policy and consultants for deep analysis on the subject.
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Keywords
Ethiopia, Sudan, historical relationship