Should the United States Increase its Engagement with Eritrea?

Abstract

Abstract : This paper will discuss Eritrea's history, historical and current relationship with the United States (U.S.), and those elements of U.S. national power that should be used in a future strategy concerning Eritrea. The Horn of Africa is becoming increasingly important to the National Security Strategy of the United States. The region is one that directly affects U.S. objectives in the global war on terrorism (GWOT) and regional stability. The U.S. is very much engaged diplomatically, economically and militarily in Ethiopia, Sudan, Djibouti, and Yemen. However, Eritrea receives less than adequate attention in its importance to regional stability or its impact on U.S. national security interests and objectives. Eritrea has a history of affecting whether or not the U.S. accomplishes its objectives in the region. Eritrea is struggling with significant internal developmental issues but wants to be a participant in the GWOT. The transitional government has become authoritarian. Its heavy handedness has often resulted in the loss of freedom of expression and representation in the country. The economic and humanitarian situations are just as dire. Additionally, there is the growing possibility of a terrorist organization supported by Al Qaeda attempting to turn the country into an Islamic state. Eritrea is important to the U.S. because it is a key ally in the GWOT, is critical in maintaining regional stability, and could provide the U.S. access to the Red Sea. The U.S. has the opportunity to assist Eritrea in developing democratic values through the example of the U.S. military. Without a stable and productive Eritrea there will not be peace in the region, the U.S. will not have an Eritrean ally in the GWOT nor have the access Eritrea provides to the Red Sea Basin. Without U.S. support in general and military support in particular, Eritrea is likely to become an authoritarian state and search for support from countries not friendly toward the U.S.