December 12, 2025 (Djibouti, Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has taken note of the decision by the Government of the State of Eritrea to withdraw from the Organisation, as communicated through a formal Note Verbale to the IGAD Secretariat.

IGAD recalls that Eritrea had self suspended its participation in the Organisation for nearly two decades before formally rejoining following the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held in June 2023. On that occasion, Eritrea was unanimously and warmly welcomed back by all Member States, reflecting a collective commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed cooperation.

Since June 2023, IGAD notes with regret that Eritrea has not participated in IGAD meetings, programmes, or activities. Throughout this period, the Secretariat has exercised patience and goodwill, while remaining open and available for constructive engagement.

IGAD further regrets that the decision to withdraw was taken without the submission of tangible proposals or engagement on specific institutional or policy reforms. The Organisation has consistently remained open to dialogue through its established consultative mechanisms.

In this spirit, the IGAD Secretariat will continue its outreach to the Government of the State of Eritrea and encourages it to reconsider its position and to fully rejoin the Organisation in good faith, in order to advance shared objectives for peace, stability, and development across the region.

IGAD remains firmly committed to its mandate of fostering regional cooperation, dialogue, and collective action for the benefit of the peoples of the Horn of Africa.

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IGAD Regrets Eritrea’s Decision to Withdraw from the Organisation