The Case of Ethiopia and Somaliland

A State under International Law

States are significant subjects of international law and actors in international relations. Under international law, a state is a legal and political entity with some characteristics. What constitutes a state under international law is defined by the Montevideo Convention. The convention outlines a permanent population, defined territory, government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states as the definition of a state. The concept of statehood is a fundamental principle in international law, as it establishes the rights and obligations of states in their interactions with one another. Hence, an entity must meet the above criteria to be recognized as a state.

“Port is a commodity and we can purchase it where it is affordable.” This statement was the opinion of the late Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Meles Zenawi. He said this when he asked about the impact of Ethiopia’s landlockedness on the country’s development two decades ago. The deceased added: “Now we do not use ports of Masawa and Assab. We lost nothing by not using these two ports. Ethiopia achieved the fastest growth and development in its history in those years. So, landlockedness does not result in poverty and we can use ports of other neighbouring countries. Therefore, there is no reason to regret the landlockedness of Ethiopia. Landlockedness is not and cannot be detrimental to us. Ethiopia was poor when we had ports. Now, we do not have ports, but we are moving forward in our development aspirations. So, a port is not necessary for development,” concluded the late premier.