Unsolved Trinity: The case of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

Abstract

This research aims to understand transboundary river conflict and cooperation in the context of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. The study addresses the basin level legal environment and the reasons for unclosed deal from a perspective of power politics. The paper argues that power asymmetry affects cooperation in the absence of a quality institution. To mitigate such tension, benefit sharing principle needs to be introduced into the current negotiation, while Ethiopia should bring collaborative offers to downstream states in order to balance power. Furthermore, building common-ground through managing water-food-energy-environment nexus may protect each riparian from the negative impacts of counter-hegemony.