Overview of Ethiopia’s Foreign Policy and Diplomacy:

From Emperor Haile Selassie to Present

Ethiopia, known as the cradle of civilization and one of the oldest independent nations, has a rich
tapestry of foreign policy shaped by cultural heritage, historical dynamics, and geopolitical
interests. This essay explores Ethiopia's foreign policy and diplomacy from the reign of Emperor
Haile Selassie to the contemporary period, highlighting key themes, shifts, and events that have
defined its international relations.

Haile Selassie’s Era (1930-1974)

Emperor Haile Selassie I, who ruled from 1930 until 1974, is a pivotal figure in Ethiopia's
foreign relations. His reign was marked by an emphasis on modernization and international
diplomacy. In 1936, during the Italian invasion of Ethiopia, Selassie garnered global attention by
appealing to the League of Nations for assistance. His advocacy at the League's assembly
underscored Ethiopia's sovereignty and highlighted the limitations of collective security
institutions, which ultimately failed to protect the nation (Vaughan, 2003). This moment not only
solidified Ethiopia's position in the international arena but also inspired other countries in their
struggles against colonialism.

Post World War II, Selassie became an influential leader in the pan-African movement. His
vision led to the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which aimed to
promote unity and cooperation among African states. This period emphasized Ethiopia's
leadership role in advocating for African independence and territorial integrity in the face of
colonial rule. Selassie’s foreign policy was characterized by the motto "African solutions to
African problems," which sought to foster self-determination among African nations (Zewde,
2001).

Despite his achievements, Selassie's regime faced growing criticism over autocratic governance
and socio-economic disparities, leading to a coup d'état in 1974. The subsequent Derg regime
shifted Ethiopia’s foreign policy aligning closer to the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War.
 The Derg Regime and Mengistu Haile Mariam (1974-1991)

The Derg, a Marxist-Leninist military junta led by Mengistu Haile Mariam, implemented
policies that drastically changed Ethiopia's diplomatic stance. In alliance with the Soviet Union,
the Derg received military and economic aid, which was pivotal during the Eritrean War of
Independence and the civil conflicts that arose during this period. The regime's alignment with
communist ideologies signified a departure from Selassie’s approach, which had been focused on
diplomacy and multilateralism.

However, this era was marked by domestic upheaval and international isolation due to human
rights abuses and economic mismanagement. The Derg's hostility to the West, particularly after
the Ogaden War (1977-1978), strained its foreign relations. The regime eventually fell in 1991 as
rebel groups, including the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), gained
control, paving the way for a new era of governance and diplomacy.

The EPRDF Era and Modern Diplomacy (1991-Present)

Following the Derg's fall, Ethiopia entered a period of reconstruction under the EPRDF. Prime
Minister Meles Zenawi’s administration marked a turnaround in foreign policy, emphasizing
economic development, regional stability, and international partnerships. Ethiopia positioned
itself as a key player in the Horn of Africa, participating in peacekeeping missions and counter-
terrorism initiatives, particularly following the September 11 attacks in the United States (Shinn,
2010).

Under Meles, Ethiopia’s relations with the West strengthened, especially with the United States.
The nation became a pivotal ally in the fight against extremism and was a recipient of substantial
foreign aid aimed at economic development. Ethiopia also played a significant role in promoting
peace in Sudan through mediatory roles in resolving the conflict in South Sudan (Meles, 2011).

However, internal challenges, including ethnic tensions and issues surrounding the Grand
Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), have tested Ethiopia's diplomatic relations with
neighboring countries, particularly Egypt and Sudan. The GERD project, a significant economic
initiative, has raised concerns over water rights and regional security, prompting negotiations
that have yet to yield a comprehensive agreement among the parties involved.

Recent Developments and Future Directions

The current Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, who assumed leadership in 2018, has introduced
significant reforms aimed at democratization and opening up the political space in Ethiopia. His
administration made headlines for brokering peace with Eritrea, ending a state of conflict that
lasted nearly two decades. This landmark peace agreement won Abiy the Nobel Peace Prize in
2019, reflecting Ethiopia's potential role as a mediator in regional disputes (Lindsay, 2020).

However, Ethiopia continues to face challenges, particularly with the Tigray conflict that erupted
in 2020, exacerbating ethnic divisions and complicating its foreign relations. The international
community has reacted with concern over the humanitarian crisis and governmental responses,
which have implications for Ethiopia's standing in global diplomacy (Cohen, 2021).

Conclusion

Ethiopia’s foreign policy and diplomacy reflect a journey through significant historical changes,
marked by leadership transitions and evolving geopolitical contexts. From Emperor Haile
Selassie’s vision of pan-Africanism to the current government’s dual challenges of fostering
regional stability and addressing internal conflicts, Ethiopia occupies a critical juncture in the
Horn of Africa. As it navigates its path forward, Ethiopia will need to reconcile its historical
aspirations with the contemporary realities of regional governance, security, and international
relations.

References

1. Cohen, A. (2021). "The Tigray Conflict: A Humanitarian Crisis." Journal of African

Studies.
2. Lindsay, J. (2020). "Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopia's Place in Regional
Diplomacy." International Affairs Review.
3. Meles, Z. (2011). "Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa: Security Challenges and
Opportunities." Ethiopian Review.
4. Shinn, D. H. (2010). "Ethiopia and the United States: A New Approach to Strategic
Relations." Foreign Affairs.
5. Vaughan, S. (2003). "The Ethiopian State and the Politics of National Identity." African
Affairs.
6. Zewde, B. (2001). A History of Modern Ethiopia, 1855-1991. Ohio University Press.