German Institute for Global and Area Studies | Leibniz-Institut für Globale und Regionale Studien

GIGA Talk

New Alliances in the Horn of Africa: Navigating Global and Regional Competition

Date

09/10/2025

Start

04:30 p.m. (CEST)

New Alliances in the Horn of Africa: Navigating Global and Regional Competition

The Horn of Africa has become a focal point of geopolitical competition, marked by shifting alignments and intensifying rivalries. Regional dynamics are being reshaped by Ethiopia’s quest for access to the Red Sea, Turkey’s expanding role in Somalia, and Egypt’s growing security partnerships, while the war in Sudan escalates with external involvement. At the same time, the increasing presence of regional and global powers – from the United Arab Emirates to China and Russia to the United States – is adding to an already complex landscape. How do these rivalries and realignments affect prospects for peace and stability in the Horn and Red Sea region? And how should we interpret the European Union’s ambition to connect governance, peacebuilding, and regional security in such a contested environment?

A high-level panel of experts will explore these questions. Participation is by invitation only, interested persons are welcome to contact the organisers. The event will be held in English and under Chatham House rules.

Speakers: Dr. Annette Weber has been the EU Special Representative to the Horn of Africa since July 2021. She is a leading expert on the Horn of Africa with more than 25 years of experience in the region advising German decision makers at the highest level.

Dr. Gerrit Kurtz is a Researcher in the Africa and Middle East research division at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP). His research focuses on conflict management, peacebuilding, and diplomacy in the Horn of Africa.

Dr. Mona Saleh is a Research Associate at the GIGA Institute for Middle East Studies. Her research focuses on regional organizations in Africa and the Middle East and the role of international actors in peace and security.

Lidet Tadesse is a peace and security Analyst and Practitioner. Her areas of focus include geopolitics of the Horn of Africa, African multilateral approaches to peace and security, Africa’s partnerships with EU, China, and Gulf states and Africa’s role in global governance. Moderator: Mira Demirdirek is a Research Fellow at the GIGA Institute for Middle East Studies. Her research focuses on Turkey’s foreign policy, particularly towards the African continent.

Organisers

Mona Saleh

Mira Demirdirek

Doctoral Researcher

Address

GIGA Berlin Büro, Friedrichstraße 206, 10969 Berlin

Language

English

By invitation

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