This opinion piece, “A Strategic Framework for Advancing Somaliland’s International Recognition and the Right to Self-Determination,” by Eng. Abdi Ali Barkhad, argues for international recognition of Somaliland.
Here’s a concise breakdown:
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Somaliland’s Position: Somaliland restored independence in 1991 after a failed union with Somalia. The author emphasizes that Somaliland functions as a peaceful, democratic, and self-governing nation.
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Historical and Legal Justification: The author argues that Somaliland’s initial independence in 1960 and its subsequent reassertion of sovereignty in 1991 provide a strong historical and legal basis for recognition. The failed union with Somalia lacked legal validity. Somaliland meets the criteria for statehood under the Montevideo Convention.
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Strategic Objectives: The piece outlines a multi-pronged strategy for achieving international recognition, including:
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Engaging international law firms to prepare a legal case.
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Holding a referendum to reaffirm the desire for independence.
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Targeting diplomatic initiatives towards key allies and the African Union.
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Establishing a task force dedicated to international recognition.
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Launching a global media campaign to promote Somaliland’s achievements.
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Building stronger relationships with neighboring countries.
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Expected Outcomes: The author anticipates increased visibility, legal recognition from some nations, enhanced diplomatic ties, a successful referendum, and strengthened national unity.
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Call to Action: The author urges the Somaliland government to actively pursue international recognition using all available tools, emphasizing the importance of presenting their case with conviction and persistence. He concludes that the international community should acknowledge the will of the Somaliland people, demonstrated through decades of peace and self-governance.
The complete piece is as follows:
A Strategic Framework for Advancing Somaliland’s International Recognition and the Right to Self-Determination
Eng. Abdi Ali Barkhad
1. Introduction
Since reclaiming its independence in 1991, the Republic of Somaliland has stood as a peaceful, democratic, and self-governing nation, built on the principles of stability, rule of law, and people’s sovereignty. Despite its achievements, Somaliland continues to operate without formal international recognition, an injustice that contradicts both historical legitimacy and international law.
This policy document outlines a comprehensive national strategy to advance Somaliland’s recognition on the global stage. It emphasizes diplomatic engagement, legal advocacy, and public communication as essential tools in securing our nation’s rightful place among the community of nations.
2. Historical and Legal Basis for Recognition
- Somaliland obtained full independence from the United Kingdom on June 26, 1960, and was recognized by more than 30 sovereign states, including the United Kingdom, Egypt, Israel, and Ethiopia.
- Five days later, on July 1, 1960, Somaliland voluntarily entered into a union with the former Italian Somalia to form the Somali Republic.
- The union, however, lacked a legally binding treaty of merger and was never ratified by the respective parliaments, making it null under international law.
- In 1991, after years of civil war and oppression, Somaliland withdrew from the failed union and reasserted its sovereignty, restoring the borders of the former British Somaliland.
Somaliland therefore meets all the criteria for statehood under the Montevideo Convention (1933), defined territory, permanent population, functioning government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states.
3. Strategic Objectives
The Somaliland government will pursue the following objectives:
- International Legal Representation:
Engage internationally recognized law firms and experts specializing in self-determination, state succession, and international recognition to prepare a comprehensive legal brief for presentation to the United Nations, African Union, and regional bodies. - Referendum on Self-Determination:
Organize a national referendum within Somaliland’s borders, covering all six regions of the former British Somaliland, to reaffirm the people’s will for independence and provide democratic legitimacy to our claim.- Launch a structured, multi-tiered diplomatic initiative targeting:
- To revisit the 2005 AU fact-finding mission, which already recommended that Somaliland’s case be treated as unique.
- To advocate for observer status and inclusion in global development programs.
- Key strategic allies in Africa, the Gulf, Europe, and North America to build bilateral recognition momentum.
- Establish a permanent International Recognition Task Force composed of diplomats, academics, and legal experts.
- Launch a global media and information campaign to counter misinformation.
- Highlight Somaliland’s democratic governance, human rights record, and contributions to regional security.
- Organize Somaliland Recognition Conferences in London, Washington D.C., European union headquarters Brussels and Addis Ababa.
4. Coalition Building and Regional Diplomacy:
Strengthen relations with neighboring countries and regional blocs through mutual economic, security, and trade cooperation, emphasizing Somaliland’s role as a stable gateway to the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Horn of Africa.
5. Expected Outcomes
- Increased international visibility of Somaliland’s case.
- Official legal recognition by at least a few countries, creating momentum for wider acknowledgment.
- Enhanced diplomatic relations and observer participation in major international institutions.
- Peaceful reaffirmation of Somaliland’s independence through a free and fair referendum.
- Strengthened national unity and public confidence in the government’s foreign policy.
6. All in all:
The time for hesitation has passed. Somaliland’s right to self-determination is clear, lawful, and justifiable. We must present our case to the international community with conviction, professionalism, and persistence.
Our government must act now, mobilizing every legal, diplomatic, and strategic tool available to ensure Somaliland achieves the international recognition it deserves.
The people of Somaliland have spoken through three decades of peace, democracy, and self-reliance. The world must now listen.
