Awet Weldemichael

Awet Weldemichael is an Associate Professor and Queen's National Scholar in African History at Queen's University (Kingston, Ontario). He holds a PhD from UCLA and has held academic positions within Queen's University's Department of History, part of the Faculty of Arts and Science. His research focuses on decolonization, conflict dynamics in the Horn of Africa, and maritime security, with particular attention to Somalia's piracy crisis and Eritrean-Ethiopian relations.

Educational Background:

• B.A. History: University of Asmara (Eritrea) and Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia)
• M.A. African Studies: University of California, Los Angeles
• M.A./LL.M. Public International Law: Queen's University
• Ph.D. History: University of California, Los Angeles

Research Interests: Colonialism and decolonization processes, nationalist movements, peacebuilding, piracy studies, and Southeast Asian-Horn of Africa comparative histories. His work bridges historical analysis with contemporary security challenges, particularly in conflict-prone regions like Somalia and Eritrea.

Publications Overview: His scholarship spans monographs on Somali piracy (e.g., Piracy in Somalia), African liberation theology, and comparative colonial studies. Recent work addresses climate displacement in Somalia and Ethiopia-Eritrea post-2018 diplomatic shifts. His 2019 book on piracy earned the International Association for the Study of Organized Crime's top award.

Awards:

• 2019 International Association for the Study of Organized Crime Best Book Award
• Membership in Royal Society of Canada's College of New Scholars

Teaching & Engagement: Teaches courses on war/revolution in modern Africa, postcolonial African history, and African decolonization. Engages in public scholarship through media commentary and consultations on conflict resolution. His academic journey includes a formative period as a refugee goatherd in Sudan, shaping his commitment to marginalized voices in historical narratives.