Djibouti confirms Eritrea’s formal exit from IGAD regional bloc

Djibouti has confirmed that Eritrea has formally notified the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) of its decision to leave the regional bloc, marking another exit by the country from the organisation.

The notification was received by the IGAD Executive Secretariat on December 12, 2025, through a note verbale, according to a communiqué issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

In its role as the chair in office of IGAD, the Republic of Djibouti said it had taken note of Eritrea’s decision, describing it as a sovereign choice.

At the same time, Djibouti expressed regret over what it termed a new withdrawal from the organisation, noting the implications of Eritrea’s departure for the regional body.

Djibouti recalled that Eritrea had only recently returned to IGAD after making its own request to rejoin the bloc.

That decision was approved during the 14th Ordinary IGAD Summit, which was held in Djibouti on June 12, 2023, following years of absence from the organisation.

Djibouti reaffirmed its readiness to continue engaging all member states through dialogue to advance peace in the region while upholding the national sovereignty of each country.

It said it remains committed to working with all parties within the framework of the organisation.

As the host country of IGAD, Djibouti also reminded states in the sub-region that the organisation remains open to all countries, in line with its founding Act.

The statement underlined that IGAD continues to serve as a platform for cooperation among nations despite the latest development.

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