To strengthen democracy, Taiwan donates US$2 million to Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) ahead of the November 13, 2024, presidential elections.
In a world where democracy is often tested, Taiwan stands out as a committed advocate for democratic values. Recently, Taiwan made headlines by pledging NT$63 million (approximately US$2 million) to support the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) ahead of its pivotal presidential elections scheduled for November 13, 2024.
This initiative not only underscores the strength of Taiwan’s international relationships but also highlights its dedication to fostering democratic processes abroad.
A Pledge of Support
On September 29, 2024, at a ceremonial event, Taiwan’s representative in Somaliland, Allen Lou, announced the generous donation aimed at promoting transparency and fairness in the upcoming elections.
Speaking at the event, Lou said “Taiwan is proud to collaborate with the Somaliland Government to advance transparency, accountability, fairness, and trust of the 2024 Somaliland election.” Lou added that Somaliland is a “beacon of democracy in East Africa,” mirroring Taiwan’s own democratic principles in East Asia. This collaboration points to a larger narrative of allied nations uplifting each other’s democratic efforts, showcasing the importance of international solidarity.
The donation to the NEC is not Taiwan’s first foray into supporting Somaliland’s electoral processes. In 2021, Taiwan donated a similar amount to aid in the implementation of cutting-edge technology for elections, including the purchase of *2,500 sets of the Iris Biometric Voter Verification System*, which will be utilized in six cities during the forthcoming presidential election. This technological investment reflects Taiwan’s commitment to ensuring that the electoral process is not just fair, but also modern and efficient.
Building Stronger Democratic Foundations
The essence of a robust democracy lies in transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. These principles have been at the forefront of Taiwan’s support for Somaliland. In the run-up to the elections, Taiwan has facilitated discussions about best practices in electoral processes, aiming to enhance the integrity of the elections.
Lou’s leadership has been pivotal, emphasizing the partnership between Taiwan and Somaliland as a model for democratic relations. The signing of a code of conduct for political parties in Somaliland further exemplifies this commitment. It lays down guidelines that political entities must follow, ensuring that the electoral environment is fair and conducive to genuine democratic participation.
Learning from Each Other
The exchange of ideas and knowledge between Taiwan and Somaliland has proven fruitful. In January, Muse Hassan Yousuf, Chair of the NEC, visited Taiwan to learn about its electoral system firsthand. His interactions with Taiwanese officials, including former Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, aimed to equip him with insights into citizen political participation and election operations.
Such exchanges are invaluable as they not only strengthen the technical capacities of Somaliland’s electoral body but also establish a long-term partnership between the two democracies. These efforts embody the shared vision of ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and that the electoral rights of citizens are upheld.
A Step Toward a Democratic Future
Taiwan’s investment in Somaliland’s democratic framework, reflected through its substantial financial contributions and knowledge-sharing initiatives, demonstrates a profound commitment to supporting emerging democracies. As Somaliland gears up for its presidential elections, the collaboration extends beyond mere financial support; it signifies a deeper bond rooted in common democratic values.
The East African nation has three political parties, including the Somaliland National Party, the Kulmiye Peace, Unity, and Development Party, and the Justice and Welfare Party.
In an era where democracy faces numerous challenges, Taiwan and Somaliland continue to stand united, reinforcing the significance of transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. Their partnership is a shining example of how countries can come together to bolster democracy, proving that the ideals of freedom and justice transcend borders and are worth every effort to protect and promote.
Let us hope that the upcoming elections in Somaliland will not only reflect the will of the people but also reaffirm the resilience of democratic institutions in East Africa and beyond.
