Patterns of external involvement in the modern political history of the Horn of Africa states

Abstract

This chapter traces patterns of external involvement in the security affairs of the Horn of Africa states and the effect this has had – and continues to have – on the economic, political, and security dynamics of the region. By analysing external involvement in the region we provide the context necessary to judge whether the actions of various Arab Gulf states are enhancing or detracting from those of other powers operating in the Horn, such as the United States, Russia, Turkey, China, Israel, and Egypt. This allows us to better assess the extent to which the Arab Gulf states’ involvement – which has become heightened in recent years – displays similar characteristics to the past actions of other actors. We demonstrate that in current discussions about increased external security involvement in the Horn – by the Arab Gulf states or other players – little attention has been given to the agendas, interests and motives of Horn states and their governments that make up the region. We argue that Horn of Africa states have shown adeptness in currying the attention of external states for the purpose of furthering their own regional interests.