Mediation in Turkish Foreign Policy: A Case Study of the Ethiopia– Somalia Crisis

Abstract

This article examines Türkiye’s mediation efforts in its relations with African countries in the 21st century, focusing on how these efforts reflect a concurrent change in both rhetoric and practice. The Ethiopia-Somalia crisis, which arose after the memorandum of understanding signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland on 1 January 2024, has been chosen as the case study for this analysis. Following July 2024, attempts have been undertaken to address the crisis through a mediation initiative facilitated by Türkiye. In fact, Türkiye’s role in mediating between Ethiopia and Somalia serves as an indicator of its broader engagement with the African continent. The sections of the article examine mediation from Türkiye’s perspective, the Ethiopia-Somalia crisis, Türkiye’s bilateral relations with both Ethiopia and Somalia, and its mediation efforts in this context. This study aims to analyze the nature and characteristics of Türkiye’s mediation process. Within the analytical framework of the article, Türkiye’s position in the mediation process is assessed based on media content from Ethiopian, Somali, international, and Turkish sources. From July 2024 to February 2025, content shared on online platforms concerning Türkiye’s mediation efforts were analyzed using the MAXQDA software using content analysis. As a result of the research, codes reflecting Türkiye’s prominent rhetoric and actions in the mediation process are identified as appreciate, emphasis on international law, facilitation, important role, indirect talks, interests and relations, neutral mediator, regional positive perspectives, shuttle diplomacy, sisterly country, and trusted mediator and their frequencies are determined.

Keywords

• Türkiye
• Africa
• mediation
• Ethiopia–Somalia crisis
• MAXQDA

References

1. See the article for references.