Eritrea has formally notified the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Secretary‑General of its decision to withdraw from the organization, citing a series of unmet expectations and failed obligations. The country’s decision is rooted in its long‑standing involvement with IGAD, dating back to the organization’s revitalization in 1993, when Eritrea played a key role in its transformation and effectiveness. At that time, IGAD was envisioned as a primary vehicle for promoting regional peace, stability, and economic integration.
However, over the years—particularly since 2005—the organization has failed to meet the aspirations of the region’s peoples, instead becoming a tool used against certain member states, including Eritrea. This led to Eritrea’s suspension of its membership in April 2007. In June 2023, Eritrea reactivated its membership, hoping that IGAD would reform and rectify its past record. Unfortunately, the organization has continued to renege on its statutory obligations, undermining its relevance and legal mandate.
As a result, Eritrea finds it necessary to withdraw its membership, citing IGAD’s failure to provide strategic benefits to its members or to contribute substantially to regional stability. The withdrawal is significant because it highlights the organization’s struggles to meet its objectives and maintain the trust of its member states. IGAD was established to promote economic development, peace, and stability in the region, but its effectiveness has been hindered by internal conflicts and external pressures.
The Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the decision on 12 December 2025 in Asmara, marking a notable development in the country’s regional engagement. Eritrea’s exit may prompt other member states to reevaluate their involvement and push for reforms. As IGAD confronts this departure, the implications for regional cooperation and stability remain uncertain, and the move is likely to have far‑reaching consequences for both the organization and broader regional dynamics.
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