The Gulf States Mediating in the Horn of Africa: For Domestic or Regional Consumption?

Author: Courtney Freer

Gulf mediation in conflicts throughout the Horn of Africa (HoA) is not divorced from domestic considerations, particularly when regarding expatriate populations in Gulf states. These considerations, therefore, must be recognised when examining Gulf involvement.

Recommendations for policymakers:

• encourage multilateral, rather than bilateral, pursuits where possible
• continue to foster the intra-Gulf cooperation
• use the media and other tools to  raise awareness of issues that could be addressed at international or multilateral levels, rather than regionally

The Global Transitions Series looks at fragmentations in the global order and how these impact peace and transition settlements. It explores why and how different third-party actors – state, intergovernmental, and non-governmental – intervene in conflicts, and how they see themselves contributing to reduction of conflict and risks of conflict relapse. The series critically assesses the growth and diversification of global and regional responses to contemporary conflicts. It also asks how local actors are navigating this multiplicity of mediators and peacebuilders and how this is shaping conflict outcomes and post-conflict governance.