The Legacy of Great Power Competitions on Ethiopia's Geopolitics and Diplomacy: A Historical Perspective

Abstract

This article examines the enduring impact of great power competition on Ethiopia's geopolitical landscape and diplomatic maneuverings from 1885 to 2018, with a particular emphasis on the Cold War period. By meticulously analyzing key historical events and shifts in global power dynamics, the study sheds light on how Ethiopia's strategic positioning and diplomatic efforts were influenced by its interactions with major world powers. In doing so, it closely investigates significant events in the nation's history, including the 1885 Scramble for Africa, the coming victory at Adwa, the rise of Ethiopia's diplomatic influence under Emperor Haile Selassie I, the dissolution of the monarchy, the regime of Derg, and the ascendance of Meles Zenawi and Abiy Ahmed Ali. This exploration is set against the backdrop of the evolution and decline of the unipolar global order, particularly during the post-World War II era, and the geopolitical impacts of the post-Cold War reconfiguration of the global landscape. This analysis focuses on pivotal and transformative phases that significantly shaped Ethiopia's political and diplomatic environment, especially during the 1960s. The scope of this examination extends from the reign of Emperor Menelik II to the conclusion of the EPRDF's rule in 2018. Throughout this period, Ethiopia underwent significant changes in its diplomatic strategies and international relations, reflecting the broader geopolitical dynamics of the era. Through a careful examination of these pivotal moments amid global political shifts, the article aims to uncover the complexities of Ethiopia's diplomatic evolution and its enduring impact on regional geopolitics and the broader global landscape. In this context, the article investigates the enduring legacy of global power competition on contemporary Ethiopian geopolitics, highlighting how historical influences continue to shape diplomatic relations, regional interactions, and strategic decisions. By examining these historical epochs, it aims to reveal how global dynamics have shaped Ethiopia's political trajectory and foreign policy.