Signed in 2024, the Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has reshaped regional dynamics,
potentially granting Ethiopia sea access via Berbera in exchange for Somaliland’s recognition. This move challenged
Somalia’s territorial integrity and prompted Mogadishu to align itself with Egypt, Eritrea, and Djibouti against Ethiopia.
While the crisis reflects Ethiopia’s strategic push for a maritime presence, it also captures Somaliland’s long-standing
quest for independence. In the wider Red Sea region, regional tensions are exacerbated by extra-regional actors
which include the UAE, Turkey, France, and Saudi Arabia, all of which have their own interests therein. Although,
external actors do not directly cause conflict, their involvement emboldens local actors and escalates rivalries.
Hence, the Red Sea region has a growing importance in contemporary global geopolitics.
Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU: Geopolitical Ambitions and the Quest for Recognition
The year 2024 began with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The
latter, formerly British Somaliland, was part of Somalia, from which it unilaterally seceded after Siad Barre’s regime
collapsed in 1991. Since then, Somaliland has been self-ruled and is considered a de facto state. However, the
Hargheisa authority does not enjoy any international legal recognition. If implemented, the agreement with Addis
Ababa would give Somaliland its first significant de jure recognition. In return, the Hargheisa authorities would grant
Ethiopia access to the sea through the port of Berbera and the concession of a coastal area for military use. The
situation revolves around three key regional players: Ethiopia, Somalia, and Somaliland. Each of these actors has
engaged in activities driven by its own objectives and strategic priorities.
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Ethiopia-Somalia-Tensions-Power-Dynamics-and-Extra-Regional-Actors-in-the-Red-Sea-Region
