Rising Tensions in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea – An EU Perspective

In her speech, Dr Annette Weber, EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, focuses on the political dynamics in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. She discusses the Civil War in Sudan, tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, and other issues in a simmering Red Sea arena. She also addresses the role of regional organisations, the increased influence of Gulf States in the region, and the impact of geopolitics on the Western as well as the Eastern shores of the Red Sea. Apart from her responsibility for the Horn of Africa, Dr Weber's mandate covers important and highly topical issues for the European Union, such as trade, new markets, and maritime security.

About the Speaker:

Dr Annette Weber was appointed as the EU Special Representative to the Horn of Africa in July 2021. With more than 25 years of experience in the regions, she is a leading expert on the Horn of Africa. She was engaged in mediation in Sudan and Ethiopia as Senior Advisor for the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (2019-2021).

EUSR Weber has also lectured as a Professor of Conflict Studies, International Relations and African International Relations at various universities in Germany, Austria and Spain. From 2010-2012, she worked as a consultant in residence in Addis Ababa. She has published extensively on peace and security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea arena.

Development Matters is a well-established lecture series from the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA), sponsored by Irish Aid. It explores critical issues in international development, providing a platform for international policy figures and thought leaders to share their insights and expertise, and in doing so to bring development issues to the attention of a wider Irish, European and international audiences.2024 marks the fiftieth anniversary of Irish Aid, with a series of Development Matters events taking place throughout the year. Further information about the series can be found on Development Matters | IIEA and on the IIEA events page.