Tag "Ethiopia"
Elections called in a Contested Ethiopia
The political crisis in the North of Ethiopia is currently one of the most notorious humanitarian disasters in global affairs. The tragedy and ferocity of the conflict has sometimes distracted from it’s trigger: the delay of the 2020 federal & regional elections. Now, one year since their postponement, Ethiopians head to the polls to contest the leading Prosperity Party’s grip on power. Whether this will prove to be an opportunity to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions or a gateway to further crises remains to be seen.
Water Security and the GERD: Is Conflict Brewing on the Nile?
Egyptian and Ethiopian tensions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam have been escalating over the past decade. Whilst Egypt’s concerns over water scarcity could lead to conflict in the long-term, internal development could alleviate worries over scarce water resources. Egypt’s desire to recoup their position as regional hegemon, however, may prove influential in the escalating tensions.
Somalia – A Triple Threat to Instability?
Internal and external forces have ominously converged in recent weeks, threatening the tentative state of stability in Somalia. Domestically, President Mohammed Farmaajo’s efforts to manoeuvre his path to re-election in 2021 are sparking considerable internal strife, while internationally, a hurricane of potentially harmful geopolitical winds is circling around Somalia.
Ethiopia’s critical juncture: Ethnic tensions and liberal transition
After a failed coup in June, ethnic violence and repression are on the rise in Ethiopia.
Will Abiy Ahmed usher in a new Ethiopia?
Dr Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia’s reforming PM, has stimulated outlandish optimism for Ethiopia’s future. However, the country is beset with challenges. The young PM hopes to bring lasting stability and democracy through social change. Is that enough?
New alliances in the future of the Horn of Africa
After years of conflict and a tense stalemate between the two countries, Ethiopia and Eritrea signed a peace deal in July that marks a new chapter in the relations between the two countries. If it is true that these are frankly positive news, the sudden change of pace seemed having taken everyone by surprise.
Ethiopia between risk and reform
Ethiopia is undergoing its most significant changes since the 1991 birth of the EPRDF ruling coalition under its controversial leader, Meles Zenawi. The last two months have witnessed the realigning of Ethiopia’s economy and bilateral relations with previous foes such as Eritrea and Egypt.
Abiy Ahmed: the dawn of a new day for Ethiopia?
Ethiopia recently swore in Abiy Ahmed as Prime Minister. His appointment holds a great deal of meaning for Ethiopia and the region as a whole. His first months as Prime Minister will be closely watched by Ethiopians, neighboring countries, and the world.
Under the Radar: Ethiopia’s economic growth offers opportunities and challenges
Ethiopia is booming, with manufacturing, energy and infrastructure leading the way. But the weak private sector and cracks in the federalist political model pose risks to further growth and investment.