Somaliland’s Goal of International Recognition

The self-declared independent region of Somaliland continues its long-standing quest for international recognition, a journey rooted in its complex colonial history and tumultuous relationship with Somalia. Since its unilateral declaration of independence on May 18, 1991, Somaliland has operated as a de facto state, maintaining peace and stability in contrast to the ongoing unrest in Somalia. However, it remains unrecognized by the international community.

Somaliland’s history as a distinct entity dates back to its colonial past. As a British protectorate from the late 19th century, Somaliland gained brief independence on June 26, 1960. Just five days later, it merged with the former Italian Somaliland to form the Republic of Somalia. This union, however, was fraught with tensions and never formally ratified, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and mistrust.

By the 1980s, political discontent escalated as the Somali National Movement (SNM) emerged in opposition to the regime of President Siad Barre. The brutal civil war that followed Barre’s ousting in 1991 devastated Somalia but also created a turning point for Somaliland, which declared its independence the same year. Since then, Somaliland has maintained its own government, institutions, and currency, presenting itself as a hope of stability in the volatile Horn of Africa.

Somaliland’s recognition campaign has recently gained momentum through strategic diplomatic moves and growing international interest. Ethiopia, a key regional player, has shown interest in formalizing ties with Somaliland. As part of a controversial agreement, Ethiopia seeks access to Somaliland’s Berbera Port in exchange for military and economic cooperation. This deal has not only bolstered Somaliland’s position but also heightened tensions with Somalia, which views such agreements as violations of its sovereignty.

Adding to the complexity, Ethiopia has taken concrete steps to deepen its relationship with Somaliland, including opening an embassy in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s capital. For Ethiopia, a landlocked nation, access to maritime trade routes through Berbera is of strategic importance.

Somaliland’s geopolitical importance has also attracted attention in the United States, particularly among Republican policymakers. With Donald Trump’s  return to the president office , Trump US will recognize Somaliland’s independence, strengthening US interests in the Gulf of Aden and securing vital shipping lanes. Ethiopia has already moved to engage directly with Somaliland, including opening an embassy. the dynamics could shift significantly in Somaliland’s favor. Certain factions within the Republican Party have expressed support for recognizing Somaliland, citing its strategic location near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait—a vital global shipping route connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

Recognizing Somaliland could offer the U.S. opportunities to establish military and intelligence operations in the region, countering the influence of China and militant groups. Trump’s administration had previously demonstrated interest in bolstering ties with stable partners in the Horn of Africa, and his potential comeback could rekindle these discussions.

Despite its diplomatic progress, Somaliland faces significant hurdles. The lack of recognition impedes its access to international funding and global institutions, its stable governance, burgeoning ties with Ethiopia, and growing interest from the U.S. present opportunities for advancing its recognition campaign.