THE AFRICAN UNION AND CHALLENGES IN ADDRESSING THE CONFLICT IN TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
Maigari Jerry Kantiok, Abdullahi Salau Modibbo, PhD and Ruth Caleb Luka, PhD
Volume 4 Issue 2
Abstract
The conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia, has presented significant challenges to regional stability and humanitarian conditions, calling into question the effectiveness of the African Union (AU) in managing such crises. Despite numerous interventions, the AU's capacity to mediate and mitigate the conflict has been met with varying degrees of success. This study examines African Union's challenges in addressing the Tigray conflict. Specifically, it analyzes the effectiveness of the AU's mediation efforts in resolving the conflict and evaluates the impact of its peacekeeping missions on civilian protection in the region. Using content analysis method, this study adopts Neo-functionalism, as propounded by Haas (1958), to understand the dynamics of regional integration and the role of supranational institutions in conflict resolution. Neo-functionalism provides a framework to assess how the AU's institutional capabilities and political dynamics influence its intervention strategies and outcomes. The findings reveal that while the AU has made substantial diplomatic efforts to mediate between conflicting parties, the results have been mixed due to internal political dynamics, limited resources, and varying levels of commitment from member states. The AU's peacekeeping missions have had some success in providing immediate protection to civilians; however, logistical constraints and operational challenges have hindered their overall effectiveness. The study recommends strengthening the AU's institutional capacity through increased funding and member state support, enhancing collaborative mechanisms with other international organizations, and prioritizing comprehensive peacebuilding strategies that address root causes of the conflict. These measures are essential to improve the AU's responsiveness and effectiveness in managing conflicts in Tigray. Keywords: African Union (AU), Challenges, Addressing, Tigray Conflict, Ethiopia
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