Eritrea's Ongoing Border Dispute with Ethiopia

The peace agreement between Eritrea and Ethiopia marked a pivotal shift in the relations between the two nations, which had been marred by conflict for nearly two decades. The agreement aimed to formally end the state of war and restore diplomatic and economic ties, fostering an environment conducive to regional stability and cooperation. Despite the optimism surrounding the agreement, the full implementation of the Joint Declaration of Peace and Friendship remains incomplete, leading Eritrean authorities to withhold formal recognition of its execution. This ongoing uncertainty has implications for local governance, as evidenced by the infrequency of local elections in Eritrea, with the last rounds occurring in 2010 and 2011. The political landscape in Eritrea continues to be shaped by these dynamics, as the government navigates the complexities of post-agreement relations with Ethiopia while managing internal governance issues. The peace agreement has the potential to enhance economic collaboration and security in the Horn of Africa, but its success hinges on the commitment of both nations to fulfill the terms outlined in the declaration and to address the underlying issues that have historically fueled tensions.