Ethiopia, with a population above 120 million people, faces enormous social, political and economic challenges. In 1993, following a protracted civil war, Ethiopia became a landlocked country. In concluding the civil war, most Ethiopians argued the then provisional government made an ill-fated decision that was inattentive to the nation’s long-term strategic interest. This reality has profoundly impacted Ethiopia’s economy and security.
Article 125 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea provides that “The land-locked States shall have the right of access to and from the sea to exercise the rights provided for in this Convention including those relating to the freedom of the high seas and the common heritage of mankind.” Section 2 stipulates “the terms and modalities for exercising freedom of transit shall be agreed between the land-locked States and transit States.”
Consistent with this international convention, the Ethiopian government has sought, by diplomatic and peaceful means, to advance Ethiopia’s access to the sea. A notable development in this regard is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Somaliland. Objections to the MOU are being raised from expected quarters because of Somaliland’s status as an entity not officially recognized as a sovereign state by members of the United Nations. While such diplomatic recognition is lacking, the international community remains engaged with the state due to its strategic significance and political stability. The MOU accepts (leverages) this global reality in the interest of Ethiopia and the people of Somaliland.
Ethiopia, along with several other nations, has established a diplomatic presence in Somaliland for a long time but has stopped short of formal recognition of Somaliland’s sovereign status.
The Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice (EZEMA), guided by principles of mutual security and benefit, advocates for robust economic and political cooperation with neighboring countries. This approach aligns with international laws and respect for national sovereignty. EZEMA emphasizes (recognizes) the necessity of equitable access to maritime gateways. For landlocked countries like Ethiopia, this is not only an economic imperative but is also a matter of national security and survival.
The party asserts that these objectives should be pursued peacefully, diplomatically, and legally.
This is not a new position for EZEMA. In its political program written in May 2019, in sub-section 4.2.3 under the main section dealing with the party’s foreign policy and regional peace, it states: “Given our history and international law, our country has the right to have a seaport corridor under its sovereignty. When looked at from the perspective of our unique location, Ezema believes the pursuit of this right is not just a matter of economics but also impacts our national security and existence. A peaceful, legal, and diplomatic strategy only will be pursued towards this goal.”
Moreover, EZEMA urges the Ethiopian government to be transparent in its communication with citizens regarding this issue of national significance, emphasizing a diplomatic approach that is informed, competent, and consistent. EZEMA expresses concern that certain communications from state and affiliated media outlets could inadvertently jeopardize ongoing diplomatic engagement. It urges careful vetting and rectification of reckless media campaigns and content to ensure responsible messaging. Ethiopia remains an accountable and respected member of the international community, committed to upholding the rules and regulations of the global system. We must equally emphasize our adherence to established norms and protocols alongside our efforts to articulate, advance, promote, and defend our nation’s long-term development aspirations and strategic interests.
EZEMA shares concern about the potential constitutional violations arising from regional states engaging in foreign relations – an activity typically reserved for federal authority. This, EZEMA argues, could further compromise national sovereignty if not addressed promptly.
While securing direct access to the sea remains crucial, Ethiopia’s long-term strategic interest is best served by fostering collaboration with neighboring coastal nations. This partnership should put regional integration at the crux of the matter with developing a common currency, a regional passport facilitating the free movement of labor and capital, and, ultimately, a stable confederation as an end goal. Such an endeavor aligns perfectly with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of a united and prosperous continent.
Leveraging its prominent historical role as a founding member of the AU, Ethiopia should champion continental initiatives to realize this vision. This necessitates skillful diplomacy, strategic partnerships with key regional and global stakeholders, and responsible utilization of maritime access to ensure regional peace and global stability. Indeed, this further entails navigating a complex web of diplomatic channels and managing positive public perceptions in the region and beyond. It includes negotiating mutually beneficial agreements with neighboring countries, fostering regional cooperation, and ensuring transparent communications with all stakeholders. This is essential to address concerns ahead of time and pave the way for reciprocally beneficial solutions and lasting peace in the region.
Finally, EZEMA calls attention to the critical need for the Ethiopian government and all Ethiopians, including those in opposition to the government, to prioritize domestic stability and resolve internal conflicts through dialogue, emphasizing that safeguarding the nation’s interests historically has been undermined by internal unrest.
Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice (EZEMA)
January 18, 2024