Number: RL30598 Title: THE ETHIOPIA-ERITREA CONFLICT Authors: Theodros Dagne, Foreign Affairs and National Defense Division Abstract: Open conflict broke out between Ethiopia and Eritrea in May 1998 after disagreements over several areas along the common border worsened. The war occurred despite the earlier creation of a joint border commission to address complaints by both sides. An estimated 50,000-100,000 people were killed in the conflict and close to a million people have been displaced. The real reason behind the outbreak of fighting is murky at best. On June 18, 2000, Ethiopia and Eritrea agreed to a peace package. Pages: 23 Date: Updated July 6, 2000