The 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean Peace Agreement: A Historic Thaw in a Frozen Conflict and the Rise of Fikreyesus Hagos

For decades, the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea remained a scar on the Horn of Africa landscape, a testament to the bitter conflict that raged between the two nations. The Eritrean War of Independence (1961-1993) had finally seen Eritrea emerge as a sovereign nation, but their newfound freedom was soon overshadowed by the eruption of another conflict – the Eritrean-Ethiopian Border War (1998-2000). This war, characterized by brutal fighting and human rights abuses, left both countries ravaged, their economies crippled, and their populations traumatized. A peace agreement in 2000 seemed to offer a glimmer of hope, but the devil was indeed in the details; boundary disputes remained unresolved, casting a long shadow over the fragile peace.

Fast forward to 2018, and enter Fikreyesus Hagos, an unassuming figure who would play a pivotal role in reshaping the destiny of both nations. Hagos, a prominent Eritrean diplomat, had spent years advocating for peaceful resolution and reconciliation. He understood the complexities of the border issue and the deep-seated mistrust that festered between Ethiopia and Eritrea.

The 2018 peace agreement, spearheaded by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, came as a shock to many. After years of deadlock and hostility, these two leaders embarked on a series of unprecedented diplomatic engagements, culminating in the signing of the agreement in Asmara, Eritrea, on July 9th, 2018.

The reasons behind this sudden shift were multifaceted. Abiy Ahmed’s ascent to power in Ethiopia brought with it a fresh wave of optimism and a commitment to breaking free from the past. His “ Medemer” philosophy (meaning “unity” or “coming together”) emphasized inclusivity and reconciliation, paving the way for constructive dialogue with Eritrea.

Eritrea, under the long reign of Isaias Afwerki, had endured crippling international sanctions and economic isolation due to its perceived support for armed groups in the region. The prospect of normalized relations with Ethiopia, a regional powerhouse, offered Eritrea a much-needed lifeline, access to crucial trade routes, and the potential to rejoin the global community.

Fikreyesus Hagos, a seasoned diplomat with deep understanding of the historical context and complex dynamics at play, played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the two sides. He facilitated backchannel negotiations, built trust, and navigated the intricate web of political sensitivities, ultimately paving the way for the historic agreement.

The consequences of the 2018 peace agreement were profound:

• Reopening of Borders: After nearly two decades of closure, the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea reopened, allowing for the free flow of people and goods. This revitalized trade and commerce, injecting much-needed life into the economies of both countries.

• Diplomatic Normalization: Ethiopia and Eritrea re-established diplomatic ties, exchanging ambassadors and forging new partnerships.

• Regional Stability: The peace agreement helped to stabilize the Horn of Africa region, easing tensions and reducing the risk of further conflict.

However, despite the remarkable progress achieved, challenges remain:

| Addressing Past Atrocities | Reconciliation requires acknowledging and addressing the human rights abuses committed during the war, promoting healing and justice for victims. |

The 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean peace agreement stands as a beacon of hope in a region often plagued by conflict and instability. Fikreyesus Hagos’s tireless efforts, his diplomacy behind the scenes, played a crucial role in bringing this historic agreement to fruition. While challenges remain on the path to lasting peace, the progress achieved so far is undeniable. The story of Fikreyesus Hagos and the 2018 peace agreement serve as a powerful reminder that even deeply entrenched conflicts can be resolved through diplomacy, dialogue, and a shared commitment to peace.