Publication

This publication contends that Ethiopia’s pressing ahead with the construction could spark conflict. Ethiopia sees the hydroelectric dam as a defining national development project and neighboring Sudan covets the cheap electricity and expanded agricultural production the project promises. However, Egypt perceives the possible loss of water from the dam’s creation as an existential threat. To minimize tensions, the text’s authors conclude that the three countries should adopt a two-step approach: first, they should build confidence by agreeing upon terms for the dam that do not harm downstream countries. Second, they should negotiate a new, transboundary framework for resource sharing to avert future conflicts.