ABOUT THE CENTER
The Centre for Diplomacy and Foreign Relations provides a platform for research and policy dialogue on diplomacy, foreign policy, and regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The Centre examines the diplomatic engagements and foreign policy orientations of regional and global actors and their implications for interstate relations, peacebuilding, and regional integration. Through research, training, conferences, and policy dialogues, the Centre promotes informed diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution of regional challenges.
STRATEGIC CONTEXT
The transition toward a multipolar world order has turned the Horn of Africa into a focal point of great-power competition. Nations in the region must navigate the competing interests of the United States, China (via the Belt and Road Initiative), Russia, the European Union, and increasingly assertive Gulf states.
The strain of overlapping crises has increasingly exposed the limits of regional institutions, pushing states toward fragmented bilateral arrangements that complicate collective diplomatic action. In this environment, evidence-based policy dialogue and coordinated multilateral engagement become essential instruments for conflict prevention and durable regional integration.
EXPANDED RESEARCH DOMAINS
Transactional Diplomacy and Shifting Alliances
Tracking how Horn nations balance competing foreign investments and political pressures from extra-regional hegemons.
Economic Diplomacy and Sovereign Debt
Analyzing the implications of foreign debt, port concessions, and transnational infrastructure projects on national sovereignty.
Intergovernmental Frameworks
Evaluating the efficacy and structural reform needs of regional blocs such as IGAD, the EAC, and the African Union.
Hydro-Politics and Resource Diplomacy
Navigating international law and diplomatic negotiations surrounding shared transboundary resources, notably the Nile River basin.
METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH & POLICY IMPACT
The Center publishes research through bulletins, policy briefs, and books; holds workshops, seminars, conferences, roundtable discussions, consultative meetings, and media appearances. The Center provides in-house expertise, scholars, and practitioners on key issues in diplomacy and foreign relations, aiming to strengthen the region’s diplomatic standing through high-quality research and actionable policy recommendations.
FEATURED ANALYSIS
