ASSESSING THE BEHAVIOR OF ETHIOPIAN FOREIGN POLICY FROM A NATIONAL INTEREST PERSPECTIVE: THE CASE OF ETHIOPIA-ERITREA RELATIONS

Abstract

Ethiopian foreign policy has historically been shaped by the imperative of safeguarding national interests, including security, economic development, and regional stability. By employing a qualitative analysis grounded in realism and national interest theory, the research explores how Ethiopia has prioritized and balanced political, economic, and security interests in its approach to Eritrea from the post-independence period to the present. It seeks to assess the extent to which Ethiopia's foreign policy decisions concerning Eritrea are driven by the pursuit and protection of its core national interests, such as security, economic development, and regional influence. By examining key historical junctures, policy shifts, and diplomatic engagements, the research analyzes the interplay of domestic and external factors shaping Ethiopia's strategic choices. It deals how Ethiopia’s strategic decisions ranging from conflict to reconciliation have been driven by core national interests, particularly in the context of the 1998-2000 boarder war and the subsequent peace agreement in 2018. By analyzing key diplomatic, security, and economic factors, the research explores the extent to which Ethiopia’s foreign policy toward Eritrea aligns with its broader national objectives. The findings contribute to understanding the interplay between national interest and foreign policy in the Horn of Africa, offering insights into the dynamics of conflict resolution and regional diplomacy.