Ethio-Eritrean Relations Since 1991: Experience for Sudan and South Sudan's Relations
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2014-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The central focus of this study is on drawing lessons for Sudan and South Sudan after examining the Ethio-Eritrean post-secession relations. Specifically, this thesis attempts to assess Ethio-Eritrean relations before the outbreak of the 1998-2000 war, identify the factors spurring the Ethio-Eritrean impasse in the post-war period and draw lessons for Sudan and South Sudan from Ethio-Eritrean disparity. The study attempts to answer the following questions: Why did the pre-war agreement/s and relations failed to bring enduring harmony between Ethiopia and Eritrea? What are the potential and actual factors that led to the impasse regarding Ethio-Eritrean relations after the end of the war? What important lessons can Sudan and South Sudan learn from Ethio-Eritrean disparity to normalize and develop harmonious relations? The study employed qualitative methodological approach. To realize the stated objectives and address the questions, the researcher used both primary and secondary sources of data. Primary data were elicited through in-depth interviews with key informants whereas secondary data were gathered from books, articles, official documents and other pertinent publications. After examining the Ethio-Eritrean post-secession experience and ascertaining the view of key informants and assessing written documents, the study has come up with the following findings. First, the post-secession Sudan and South Sudan destabilization and proxy engagement need to be repudiated since it complicates the normalization process and widen the existing mistrust and animosity. Second, the culture of militarism needs to be replaced by a new political and diplomatic approach. Third, the negative implications of unaccountable and authoritarian rule should be overcome and replaced by a democratic system of governance, where the power of the elite is limited, the voice of the public heard and the rights of civil societies and opposition political parties guaranteed. Fourth, the forceful and abusive deportations of nationals of each other must come to an end since it threatens bilateral relations and people to people cordiality. Institutionalization of their relations and implementation of the agreements in good faith is the other compelling lesson to be drawn thereof by the Sudan and South Sudan
Description
Keywords
International Relation