Defending Territorial Integrity:

Somalia's Diplomatic Response to Ethiopia's Encroachment in the Awdal Region

Abstract

This paper analyzes the diplomatic efforts undertaken by the Somali government in response to Ethiopia's attempt to annex part of the Red Sea's territorial land in Somalia's Awdal region. The study highlights the collective outcry and mobilization among the Somali populace against Ethiopia's encroachment, emphasizing the violation of diplomatic protocols and international law. It also examines the political and economic motivations behind Ethiopia's clandestine maneuver and the role of Muse Bihi, leader of a faction in Northern Somalia, in exacerbating domestic turmoil. Moreover, the paper scrutinizes the illicit Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Bihi, assessing its legal and historical implications. It argues that Somaliland's integral status within Somalia nullifies any agreements regarding Somali territory made by Bihi, rendering the MoU void under international law. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence in averting conflict in the Horn of Africa and asserts Somalia's unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Keywords

Somalia, Ethiopia, territorial integrity, diplomatic endeavor, sovereignty, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), regional security, international law

Introduction

The Somali government has embarked on a robust diplomatic campaign to safeguard its territorial unity and sovereignty against Ethiopia's audacious attempt to annex part of the Red Sea's territorial land in the Awdal region. This paper examines the diplomatic response of Somalia to Ethiopia's encroachment, analyzing the underlying political, economic, and historical factors shaping this conflict.

Ethiopia's Encroachment and Somalia's Response

Ethiopia's clandestine maneuver, symbolized by an illicit Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Muse Bihi, leader of a faction in Northern Somalia, constitutes a stark violation of diplomatic protocols and international law. The paper elucidates the motivations behind Ethiopia's actions, including political and economic desperation amid internal turmoil. It also assesses the role of Muse Bihi in exacerbating domestic turmoil in Somaliland and his lack of legitimacy to engage in agreements pertaining to Somali territory.

Legal and Historical Implications: Contrary to claims of Somaliland's independence, historical and legal realities affirm its integral status within Somalia, as enshrined in the Union Act. The paper argues that Muse Bihi lacks the legitimacy to engage in any agreements regarding Somali territory, rendering the MoU null and void under international law.

Regional Cooperation and Peaceful Coexistence

The paper underscores the importance of regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence in averting conflict in the Horn of Africa. It emphasizes Somalia's unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as articulated by President Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.

Conclusion

In light of the armed conflict of 1977 between Somalia and Ethiopia, the diplomatic efforts outlined in this paper take on added significance. The historical enmity between the two nations, exemplified by past conflicts such as the Ogaden War, underscores the gravity of Ethiopia's encroachment on Somali territory. The clandestine maneuvers, including the illicit Memorandum of Understanding with Muse Bihi, not only violate diplomatic protocols but also evoke memories of past transgressions against Somalia's sovereignty.

The conclusion drawn from this analysis emphasizes the enduring importance of upholding Somalia's territorial integrity, particularly in the face of historical antagonism from neighboring Ethiopia. The paper's call for regional cooperation and peaceful resolution of disputes gains added urgency in light of past conflicts, highlighting the imperative of averting further violence in the volatile Horn of Africa region. Somalia's commitment to defending its sovereignty remains resolute, echoing the sentiments expressed during the armed conflict of 1977 and underscoring the ongoing struggle for autonomy and self-determination in the face of external pressures.