Gulf soft power in the Horn: competition vs cooperation

As the Horn battles to stem regional conflict, Gulf soft power fortifies itself amid dwindling Western influence.

The Horn of Africa is undergoing unprecedented turbulence as political crises ripple through the region. The upheaval has cast attention yet again on the interventions of Gulf states and their allies in the Horn. This report outlines the nature and implications of Gulf soft power on Horn countries, and the opportunities and limits it presents for promoting peace, security and development.

About the author

Samira Gaid is a Regional and Security Analyst with extensive experience in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. Her research and analytical pieces have focused on foreign policy, political violence and competitive state building in the Horn. She has a Master’s degree in strategic security studies.

Image: © Amelia Broodryk/ISS