IGAD Responds to Eritrea’s Withdrawal Notice with Regret and an Open Door
December 12, 2025 (Djibouti, Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) acknowledges the Government of the State of Eritrea’s formal Note Verbale announcing Eritrea’s decision to withdraw from IGAD.
IGAD reminds readers that Eritrea had previously imposed a self-imposed suspension for nearly twenty years before rejoining the group at the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government in June 2023. At that time, Eritrea was greeted with unanimous warmth by all Member States, signaling a shared commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed collaboration.
Since mid-2023, IGAD notes with disappointment that Eritrea has not taken part in IGAD meetings, programs, or activities. Throughout this interval, the Secretariat has shown patience and goodwill, remaining open and ready for constructive engagement.
IGAD also regrets that Eritrea’s withdrawal was decided without presenting concrete proposals or engaging on specific institutional or policy reforms. The Organization has consistently kept its doors open to dialogue through its established consultative processes.
In light of this, the IGAD Secretariat will continue to reach out to the Government of the State of Eritrea and urges it to reconsider its position, aiming to rejoin the Organization in good faith so that shared goals—peace, stability, and development across the region—can be advanced together.
IGAD reiterates its steadfast commitment to its mandate: promoting regional cooperation, constructive dialogue, and collective action for the benefit of the peoples of the Horn of Africa.
Download Press Release in PDF Below
IGAD Regrets Eritrea’s Decision to Withdraw from the Organisation (https://igad.int/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IGAD-Regrets-Eritreas-Decision-to-Withdraw-from-the-Organisation.pdf)
But here’s the nuance: Eritrea’s decision raises important questions about how regional integration remains resilient when member state participation shifts. Is there room for a revised pathway that preserves regional cohesion while accommodating legitimate concerns? How should IGAD balance its open-door policy with the need for consistent engagement to achieve shared regional goals? If you have thoughts or firsthand experiences, share them in the comments to spark a constructive discussion.
