Title: Role of diplomacy in recognition of an evolving state: the case of Eritrea and South Sudan

Authors: Ibrahim Suleiman Roba; Patrick Maluki; Martin Odhiambo Ouma

Addresses: Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya ' Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya ' Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract: This study sought to examine the role played by diplomacy in an evolving state using a case study of Eritrea and South Sudan. The study used mixed methods approach that included qualitative and quantitative techniques and a case study design. Purposive and simple random sampling was used to obtain 384 participants. Interviews were conducted to collect the data for the study. From the findings, the majority of the respondents (78%, 68%) indicated that diplomacy played a role in South Sudan and Eritrea state recognition. These diplomatic strategies included multi-track diplomacy, shuttle diplomacy, resistance and rebellion (diplomacy of liberation), seeking membership in international organisations, secession and self-determination and referendum. In conclusion, state recognition is a process that requires different diplomatic strategies. This makes state recognition a tedious and lengthy process with no universal diplomatic strategies. Consequently, diplomatic support from the United Nations is central to attaining statehood and eventual recognition.

Keywords: state recognition; diplomacy and statehood; evolving state; Eritrea; South Sudan.

DOI: 10.1504/IJDIPE.2023.134638

International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy, 2023 Vol.9 No.2, pp.176 - 188

Received: 01 Oct 2022
Accepted: 01 Feb 2023
Published online: 01 Nov 2023 *

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