The debate surrounding Somaliland’s recognition has garnered significant attention within the UK political landscape, with Members of Parliament advocating for a resolution. The decisions made by the UK will not only shape the future of Somaliland but also have far-reaching implications for the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa. If the UK chooses to recognize Somaliland, it could mark a turning point in the relationship between Ethiopia and Somaliland, providing both nations with a pathway to a more stable and secure future.
By Chakham
In January, a distinguished group of Somaliland elders traveled to London intending to persuade Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration to support Somaliland, following its recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia.
Despite allegedly facing the same reticence from the British government, notable UK legal figures, including the former Attorney General and members of the Law Society, were engaged in finalizing the practical details of this agreement, dedicating a significant period to discussions in Hargeisa.
Moreover, the pressing appeals from members of the House of Lords, coupled with the imminent threats posed by the Houthis, prompted a reconsideration from the Foreign Secretary regarding the recognition of Somaliland.
Concurrently, Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, Essa Kayd, has been diligently advocating in London for bolstered support towards the Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU. Yet, the quest for an unequivocal resolution regarding Somaliland’s sovereign recognition lingers in a state of uncertainty.
Recent revelations have suggested that Ethiopia might retract its recognition of Somaliland under specific provisions of the MoU, mainly owing to formidable pressures exerted by international partners, particularly from Somalia, which vehemently contests the accord. Such a retraction could severely undermine the MoU’s foundational objectives, despite Somaliland’s potential willingness to adhere to provisions of the agreement that resonate with its strategic interests. Yet, the lack of substantive support from the British government could be a pivotal factor that may precipitate the agreement’s unraveling, as the recognition by the United Kingdom could significantly fortify the pact’s implementation dynamics.
…the lack of strategic support from the British government could be a pivotal factor that may precipitate the agreement’s unraveling..
Furthermore, the government of the United Kingdom has persistently stated a definitive stance on the issue of Somaliland’s recognition, asserting that the solution of its status should come from dialogues between Somalia and Somaliland. The United Kingdom has consistently advocated for both entities to engage in constructive discourse. UK Minister of State Andrew Mitchell, responding to a recent inquiry from MP Tim Loughton regarding the establishment of conditions for formal interactions with the Government of the Republic of Somaliland, emphasized,
“The UK’s position on Somaliland’s independence is clear; the settlement of Somaliland’s status is an issue for Somalia and Somaliland to resolve through dialogue, in which we encourage both sides to engage. It is not for the UK to preempt that process or determine its outcome.”
Despite the continued reluctance by the UK government, the window for the United Kingdom to modify its stance and extend its support to its former protectorate remains open. However, the United Kingdom’s steadfast commitment to the “One Somalia” policy, coupled with apprehensions regarding the potential aggravation of Somalia’s perilous state, has engendered a conservative approach. This reticence arguably reflects the United Kingdom’s prioritization of regional stability, eschewing actions that could potentially introduce further volatility into an already tumultuous region.
Despite the continued reluctance by the UK government, the window for the United Kingdom to modify its stance and extend its support to its former protectorate remains open.
Nonetheless, this conservative strategy may overlook the strategic imperative of nurturing a stable and reliable ally in Somaliland amidst escalating threats from the Houthis. A formal recognition by the UK could act as a pivotal step towards broader international acknowledgment of Somaliland, potentially aiding the UK’s role in enhancing stability in the Red Sea region.
The debate over Somaliland’s recognition has garnered attention within the UK political landscape, especially, after the MoU was signed, with Members of Parliament such as Gavin Williamson and Stephen Doughty advocating for the issue, signaling its significance, and urging the government to reevaluate its position. Their efforts highlight the growing concern and interest in Somaliland’s political status and its implications for regional security.
The decisions made by the UK government will not only shape the future of Somaliland but also represent a critical inflection point in the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa. Such recognition could serve as a watershed for the Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU, providing both nations with a pathway to a more stable and secure future, while potentially rendering Somalia’s situation increasingly vulnerable. While the United Kingdom presently advocates for dialogue between Somalia and Somaliland, the evolving geopolitical landscape, coupled with escalating international calls for Somaliland’s recognition, might compel the adoption of a more assertive stance in the future.
Chakham X (@Eyob_Belachew33)
Analyst and Independent commentator on the Horn of Africa, international politics and international Affairs
