Trade and Development Law
Tayewo Adewumi; Joseph Aremo
Abstract
On 20th December 2023, the African Development Bank resolved to withdraw all its international members of staff from Ethiopia with immediate effect. This came as a result of the recent breach of diplomatic protocol and assault by Ethiopian security forces on two of the African Development Bank’s ...
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On 20th December 2023, the African Development Bank resolved to withdraw all its international members of staff from Ethiopia with immediate effect. This came as a result of the recent breach of diplomatic protocol and assault by Ethiopian security forces on two of the African Development Bank’s international members of staff who were unlawfully arrested, assaulted, and detained for hours without any explanation. This was considered a gross violation of their diplomatic immunities, rights, and privileges under the Agreement Establishing the African Development Bank, of which Ethiopia is a signatory. This article discusses the legal implications of the breach on the relationship between the Bank and Ethiopia. The article considers the international legal instruments on diplomatic relations and observes that there is no excuse for such behaviour. The article concludes that a proper investigation should be carried out on this issue, and those found culpable should be dealt with. Security forces are to be well-informed to respect diplomatic relations.
