The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has formally acknowledged the decision by the Government of the State of Eritrea to withdraw from the regional organization, following receipt of an official Note Verbale submitted to the IGAD Secretariat.
In a statement, IGAD recalled that Eritrea had previously self-suspended its participation for nearly two decades before formally rejoining the organization after the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held in June 2023.
At the time, Eritrea’s return was unanimously welcomed by all member states, reflecting what IGAD described as a shared commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed cooperation.
However, IGAD noted with regret that since rejoining, Eritrea has not participated in any IGAD meetings, programmes, or activities. The Secretariat said it exercised patience and goodwill throughout this period, while remaining open to constructive engagement with the Eritrean government.
The organization further expressed concern that Eritrea’s withdrawal decision was taken without submitting concrete proposals or engaging through established consultative mechanisms to address institutional or policy concerns.
“IGAD has consistently remained open to dialogue,” the statement said, adding that the Secretariat had maintained channels for engagement throughout the period of Eritrea’s non-participation. Despite the withdrawal, IGAD said it will continue outreach efforts and encouraged Eritrea to reconsider its position and fully rejoin the organization in good faith, in order to advance shared regional goals.
IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, stability, regional cooperation, and development across the Horn of Africa, stating that these objectives remain central to the organization’s mandate and the welfare of the region’s people.
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