Eritrea has officially notified the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) of its decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, bringing an abrupt end to its recently restored membership and reigniting debate over the organization’s relevance and effectiveness.
In a formal communication addressed to the IGAD Secretary General, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Eritrea was compelled to take the step after determining that the bloc had “forfeited its legal mandate and authority,” offering “no discernible strategic benefit” to its member states or the region.
The Ministry outlined a series of reasons underpinning the decision, rooted in historical grievances and what it described as a persistent departure by IGAD from its founding principles.
According to the statement, Eritrea played “a pivotal role” in the revitalization of IGAD in 1993, contributing to early efforts aimed at strengthening regional peace, stability, and integration. However, the government says those aspirations have long been derailed.
“As it will be recalled, Eritrea… worked in collaboration with other Member States for its transformation and effectiveness,” the statement reads. “Unfortunately, over time and especially since 2005, IGAD has not only failed to meet the aspirations of the peoples of the region, but instead played a deleterious role becoming a tool against targeted Member States; particularly Eritrea.”
This deterioration, Asmara argues, triggered Eritrea’s suspension from IGAD in April 2007 following repeated complaints that the bloc was being used to isolate or undermine it.
Eritrea reinstated its membership in June 2023 with what it described as “renewed hopes” that IGAD would undertake internal reforms and correct its past handling of member-state disputes. But the Ministry said those expectations were unmet.
“Regrettably, IGAD has and continues to renege on its statutory obligations thereby undermining its own relevance and legal mandate,” the statement said.
Eritrea’s exit marks a significant development for the Horn of Africa at a time when IGAD is navigating complex security, humanitarian, and political challenges — including conflicts in Sudan, tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, and regional counterterrorism efforts.
IGAD has not yet issued a public response to Eritrea’s announcement.
Asmara’s withdrawal raises questions about the future of regional diplomacy and cooperation, with observers warning that the decision may further complicate ongoing efforts to stabilize one of Africa’s most turbulent regions.
