From Hydro Politics to Geopolitics: Egypt–Ethiopia Relations and the Expanded BRICS

Abstract

This paper examines the prospects for Egypt–Ethiopia relations in the context of their membership in BRICS+. Drawing on theoretical insights from critical constructivism, the paper finds intersecting social claims between the two countries. The paper argues that geopolitical competition between Egypt and Ethiopia is likely to continue at the regional level, despite their BRICS+ membership, while some cooperation on international issues can be expected. The paper is centred around two cases – the Nile River and Egypt’s security cooperation with Somalia. The paper finds that both countries hold substantive social claims on these issues, some of which converge, while others diverge.