Why Ethiopia is not a Strategic ally for the West

In global diplomacy, alliances are driven by strategic interests rather than goodwill. Ethiopia, despite its historical ties with Western powers and heavy reliance on Western aid, has consistently demonstrated that it does not function as a reliable ally for the West. Instead, it pursues a foreign  policy rooted in pragmatism, often at odds with Western expectations. Here’s why Ethiopia remains an unpredictable partner in international relations.

1. Strategic Opportunism: Navigating Between East and West

Ethiopia balances between Western powers and emerging global players like China, Russia, and Turkey. While it benefits from Western financial assistance, it secures military and economic deals with authoritarian regimes, prioritizing short-term gains over long-term strategic alignment. This approach signals that Ethiopia is driven more by transactional diplomacy than by committed alliances.

2. Anti-Western Rhetoric vs. Dependence on Aid

Despite receiving billions in Western aid, Ethiopia’s government frequently adopts anti-Western rhetoric, blaming foreign intervention for its internal challenges. While publicly condemning Western influence, it continues to seek economic partnerships and humanitarian assistance from the same countries it criticizes. This contradiction undermines trust and raises doubts about its reliability as a strategic partner.

3. Human Rights Violations and Governance Issues

Western alliances are often built on democratic principles and human rights. Ethiopia, however, has been accused of widespread human rights violations, political repression, and suppression of free speech. These actions conflict with Western values, making it difficult for democratic nations to justify continued support without facing domestic and international criticism.

4. Deepening Military Ties with Authoritarian States

Ethiopia has increasingly turned to countries like China, Russia, Iran, and Turkey for military cooperation. It procures weapons and security support from non-Western states, reducing its reliance on Western security partnerships. This shift signals a preference for authoritarian backers who demand fewer political conditions in exchange for support.

5. Economic Dependence on China

China has become Ethiopia’s largest economic partner, financing major infrastructure projects while extending substantial loans. This growing economic dependency limits Ethiopia’s ability to align fully with Western financial institutions, as it cannot afford to alienate Beijing. The West’s efforts to counterbalance China’s influence in Africa are complicated by Ethiopia’s willingness to prioritize Chinese investment.

6. Unpredictable Foreign Policy

Ethiopia’s diplomatic approach is highly reactive, shifting alliances based on immediate needs rather than long-term commitments. It seeks Western backing during crises but distances itself when facing scrutiny over governance and human rights. This inconsistency makes Ethiopia a challenging partner for long-term strategic cooperation.

Ethiopia prioritizes flexibility and short-term survival over steadfast alliances. Western nations should be cautious. In international relations, reliability is key—something Ethiopia’s current trajectory does not guarantee.