For over three decades, the Republic of Somaliland has stood as a model of stability, peace, and democratic governance in one of the most turbulent regions of the world—the Horn of Africa. While the world has watched the collapse of institutions in neighboring Somalia, the rise of extremist movements, and ongoing humanitarian crises, Somaliland has quietly built a functioning state based on the principles of self-determination, democracy, and rule of law.
And yet, despite this extraordinary achievement, the international community—especially Western nations that champion human rights, democratic values, and peaceful nation-building—continues to deny recognition to Somaliland. This silence is not only unjust, it is dangerous.
A Double Standard
Western governments frequently speak of their commitment to democratic ideals and self-determination. But when it comes to Somaliland, those principles vanish. Instead, many hide behind vague notions of “territorial integrity,” even though Somaliland voluntarily united with Somalia in 1960 and then withdrew from that failed union in 1991—a right enshrined under international law.
What is more troubling is the support some of these same governments give to regimes that are undemocratic, unstable, and, in some cases, sympathetic to terrorist movements. Somalia, which controls only a few square kilometers of its capital, continues to receive international aid and political backing, while hosting groups like the Heritage Institute that spread propaganda against Somaliland’s statehood and legitimacy.
Regional Hostility
It is not lost on us that powers such as China, Turkey, Egypt and Qatar back Villa Somalia to advance their own interests, using financial influence and disinformation campaigns to distort the narrative. China, in particular, supports Somalia’s unity claim not out of legal principle, but to block any precedent for Taiwan’s recognition. Meanwhile, regional extremist elements in Sool some linked to Al-Shabaab—are attacking Somaliland’s territory and even diplomats, such as the recent assassination of an Ethiopian consular staff member in Las Anod, with no global condemnation.
A Clear Choice for the Future
The people of Somaliland will never abandon their hard-won sovereignty. We are not seeking war or division—we are demanding justice and fairness. We expect no recognition from dictatorships, but from democracies that preach international law and justice, we expect consistency.
It is time for the international community to ask itself:
Why do we ignore a democratic nation that has earned its place among the free peoples of the world?
Why do we empower fragile, failing regimes while punishing successful ones?
And why do we fail to recognize that stability in the Horn of Africa starts by acknowledging reality—and that reality is Somaliland?
Somaliland’s path to recognition is not just a legal matter; it is a moral one. Recognizing Somaliland is not rewarding separatism—it is acknowledging a people’s right to live in peace, dignity, and freedom.
We stand firm in our resolve.
The world may delay recognition, but it cannot deny truth.
Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad
Independent Politically Analyst tra50526@gmail.com
Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad is a consulting Somali electrical engineer, political analyst, and writer known for his comprehensive commentary on the politics of the Horn of Africa and international relations. He has published numerous articles analysing current policies in the region and is a staunch advocate for the cause of the Republic of Somaliland. His insights have been featured on platforms such as Araweelo News Network, among others.
The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Araweelo News Network.
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