The Government of Eritrea has officially announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), according to a formal press statement released today by the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In the statement, Eritrea accused IGAD of losing its legal mandate and institutional credibility, arguing that the regional bloc has failed to play an effective role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The ministry stated that Eritrea felt compelled to withdraw from an organization it said had “lost its legitimacy and capacity” to contribute meaningfully to regional stability.
The decision comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia and reflects broader concerns about IGAD’s declining political influence in recent years. Eritrean officials have long criticized the organization for what they describe as a lack of neutrality, alleging that IGAD has increasingly aligned itself with Ethiopia, which has often played a leading role in shaping the bloc’s decisions.
Eritrea has also cited strained relations with Djibouti, where IGAD is headquartered, noting the absence of diplomatic ties as an additional factor complicating its engagement within the organization.
As of now, IGAD has not issued an official response regarding Eritrea’s decision to withdraw.