Analyzing Leadership, Institutional Integrity, and Strategic Direction in Contemporary Ethiopian Foreign Policy

By Ephrem B Hidug

Introduction

Ethiopia has long stood as a pillar of principled diplomacy in Africa and beyond, with a legacy shaped by generations of skilled diplomats, consistent foreign policy positions, and visionary leadership. From its foundational role in the creation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) to its sustained engagement in environmental diplomacy and peacebuilding, Ethiopia has historically demonstrated an unwavering commitment to sovereign integrity, regional stability, and multilateral cooperation.

However, recent developments signal a departure from this enduring tradition. Increasing politicization of foreign policy, marginalization of career diplomats, and erratic international messaging have raised concerns over the country’s strategic orientation and diminishing diplomatic credibility. The growing disconnect between political decision-makers and professional diplomats has compromised institutional coherence, weakened Ethiopia’s negotiating power, and threatened the country’s long-standing international reputation.

This paper critically evaluates the evolving landscape of Ethiopian diplomacy, with a focus on leadership challenges, institutional misalignments, and the erosion of professional norms within the Foreign Service. Through a competency-based lens, it offers an in-depth analysis of emerging trends and provides policy-oriented recommendations to restore Ethiopia’s diplomatic standing on the global stage.

Centralization of Power

A notable development in recent years is the increasing centralization of diplomatic evaluation and strategy within the Office of the Prime Minister. While these high-level review sessions—originally intended to assess foreign policy direction and institutional effectiveness—aim to enhance strategic alignment, they have often become platforms for criticism rather than constructive feedback.

Historically, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs conducted internal assessments of its missions abroad, with the Prime Minister providing the final strategic direction. In practice, however, these forums have devolved into occasions where blame is disproportionately assigned to career diplomats. These professionals—many possessing deep regional knowledge and decades of experience—are frequently publicly admonished despite facing structural constraints and a lack of political support.

What is particularly troubling is the insufficient recognition of the extraordinary contributions made by Ethiopia’s diplomatic corps. These individuals helped reintegrate Eritrea, championed the anti-apartheid movement, represented African interests before international courts, negotiated Ethiopia’s water security, spearheaded environmental diplomacy, and played critical roles in forming institutions such as IGAD and the OAU.

Despite these achievements, career diplomats are increasingly portrayed as detached, bureaucratic, and image-focused—an assessment that grossly misrepresents their record. Such characterizations reveal a broader misunderstanding among political elites about the nature of diplomacy: a discipline grounded not in immediate results or rhetorical flair, but in patient negotiation, cultural intelligence, and long-term trust-building.

The consequences of this disconnect are profound. Public shaming of diplomats—especially on matters related to financial hardship, health, or professional challenges—damages morale, fosters institutional alienation, and undermines Ethiopia’s capacity to engage meaningfully in complex international negotiations. Diplomatic effectiveness cannot be sustained in an environment of mistrust and scapegoating

Reclaiming the Fundamentals

To navigate the complexities of the 21st-century international system, Ethiopia must recommit to the three foundational principles of effective diplomacy: Competence, Credibility, and Connection.

1. Competence

Competence remains the cornerstone of successful diplomacy. It encompasses not only subject-matter expertise and geopolitical literacy but also the interpersonal acumen required to advance national interests through persuasion, not provocation. Competent diplomats must be thoroughly informed—culturally, politically, and technically—about their host countries and the broader global environment.

In a world characterized by shifting alliances and contested narratives, diplomacy requires more than positional statements. It demands agility, deep listening, and the ability to anticipate consequences. Effective diplomats use this competence to forge mutual interests, de-escalate tensions, and influence outcomes without compromising national principles.

2. Credibility

Credibility, the second pillar, is earned through consistent behavior, institutional integrity, and policy coherence. While governments may change and political rhetoric may shift, a country’s diplomatic posture must be perceived as stable and trustworthy.

Ethiopia’s past diplomatic leadership demonstrated this principle in action—from principled stances on decolonization and peacekeeping to sustained positions in international legal and environmental forums. When trust erodes—as seen in recent misstatements to global partners regarding military operations—it diminishes a country’s influence and hampers future negotiations.

Credibility is not merely reputational; it is strategic currency in the international arena. Once compromised, it requires painstaking effort and transparent re-engagement to rebuild.

3. Connection

Connection embodies the human core of diplomacy. Both institutional and interpersonal relationships are vital to the effective execution of foreign policy. Diplomats must foster long-term bonds rooted in mutual respect, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and shared values.

These enduring connections often develop over decades and act as informal yet powerful channels for influence and cooperation. When these relationships are undermined by erratic behavior or institutional neglect, a country’s diplomatic leverage diminishes, and it risks isolation from crucial networks of support.

For Ethiopia to restore its diplomatic strength and navigate today’s complex global environment, reclaiming competence, credibility, and connection is essential. These interdependent pillars form the foundation of sustainable and effective diplomacy. By investing in skilled and credible diplomats who prioritize lasting relationships, Ethiopia can rebuild trust, amplify its strategic influence, and reaffirm its standing as a principled actor on the international stage.

Moving forward demands a deliberate commitment to these fundamentals—only then can Ethiopia fully realize its diplomatic potential

Legacy vs. Present

Ethiopia’s foreign policy legacy is marked by moral clarity and strategic foresight. From Emperor Haile Selassie’s opposition to fascism and apartheid to Meles Zenawi’s leadership in global climate negotiations, global economic forums, Ethiopia has consistently voiced concerns that extend beyond national interests to address broader African and global issues.

Although Ethiopia’s early challenge to South Africa’s mandate over Namibia was procedurally unsuccessful, it stood as a powerful moral statement reflecting the country’s commitment to justice and pan-African solidarity. Ethiopia also played a pivotal role in the establishment of the African Charter and other foundational treaties that continue to influence international norms.

These accomplishments were made possible by Ethiopia’s investment in a professional diplomatic corps—well-trained, respected, and empowered to advocate for the nation’s interests with both expertise and integrity. Ethiopian diplomats have engaged effectively in multilateral, bilateral, and legal arenas, enhancing the country’s credibility and influence.

Through its consistent dedication to justice, solidarity, and principled diplomacy, Ethiopia has not only shaped its own foreign policy but also contributed significantly to African unity and global governance. By upholding strong ethical values and maintaining skilled diplomatic representation, Ethiopia remains a model of leadership on the international stage

A Regressive Turn in Ethiopian Diplomacy

Ethiopia’s longstanding diplomatic tradition has historically been defined by professionalism, strategic consistency, and a commitment to multilateral engagement. However, under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, this tradition has undergone a marked regression. Instead of strengthening the institutional and strategic foundations laid by previous leaders, the current administration has embraced a model of diplomacy centered on personal charisma, ad hoc decisions, and inconsistent messaging.

This shift became particularly evident during the Tigray conflict, when the government misled international partners about the involvement of Eritrean forces. The resulting reputational damage was significant, undermining Ethiopia’s credibility and straining its relationships with key allies and multilateral institutions.

Additional episodes have reinforced concerns about the administration’s approach. Claims about breakthroughs in artificial rain technology, presented without scientific validation, and provocative statements about Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea have further alienated regional partners. These actions reflect a troubling departure from evidence-based, collaborative diplomacy and have fueled perceptions of unpredictability and unilateralism.

Ethiopia’s past contributions to global diplomacy underscore the gravity of this decline. Dr. Tedros Adhanom, currently Director-General of the World Health Organization, is a testament to the country’s capacity for responsible international leadership. His tenure at the WHO demonstrates how diplomacy, when grounded in competence and integrity, can serve both national and global interests. The Ethiopian government’s decision to oppose his re-election—led by Prime Minister Abiy and the then-ambassador to Geneva, Lieutenant Zenebe Kebede—was widely regarded as a strategic miscalculation, driven more by internal politics than sound diplomatic judgment.

At the institutional level, the deterioration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been particularly damaging. Rather than empowering career diplomats, the current administration has sidelined them, often scapegoating experienced professionals for broader leadership failures. This has resulted in a demoralized foreign service, a fragmented diplomatic strategy, and an increasingly isolated international posture.

Ethiopia now stands at a crossroads. Rebuilding trust, restoring institutional integrity, and re-engaging constructively with the international community will be essential if the country is to reclaim its diplomatic standing and influence in the region and beyond.

Conclusion: Restoring Professionalism and Strategic Integrity

Ethiopia today finds itself at a diplomatic inflection point. Its rich legacy, once a source of pride and strategic leverage, is now under serious threat—not from hostile actors, but from internal misalignment, politicization, and the devaluation of professional expertise.

Reclaiming Ethiopia’s position as a respected actor in global affairs will require decisive institutional reforms and a renewed commitment to the principles that once defined its diplomatic excellence:

  • Re-institutionalizing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the primary engine of foreign policy formulation and execution;
  • Empowering career diplomats with the autonomy, resources, and respect necessary to fulfill their mandates;
  • Reestablishing national credibility through consistent, transparent, and values-driven engagement with global partners.

Diplomacy is not a stage performance—it is a craft, honed over time, executed with discipline, and grounded in trust. Let it be practiced by those who understand its intricacies, and let Ethiopia once again speak with a voice that reflects both its national interests and its enduring values.

Ephrem B. Hidug

Ephrem is a former Ethiopian diplomat with over 20 years of experience in international law and diplomacy. He holds an LL.M. and an M.A. in related fields.