Should the UN Recognise Somaliland As a Sovereign State?

The question is, should the UN recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state? Let's examine the legal case for recognition, the AU's mixed signals and the UK's opposition to the idea. We'll also look at the situation in the region and the potential for a future deal. This is an issue that requires international attention. However, we should also keep the long-term interests of Somaliland in mind.

UN's reluctance to recognize Somaliland as an independent state

While Somalia has been in a state of instability since its independence in 1991, Somaliland has established a stable government, an internationally recognized flag, and a parliamentary system. Its government operates along democratic and pluralistic principles and has held two peaceful presidential elections. This summer, nine political parties will compete in local elections.

As a result, it is highly important that the United States Recognize Somaliland as an independent state. It is an emerging moderate Muslim democracy in the Horn of Africa that should be given the chance to flourish. In addition, rising tensions in Somalia make it imperative that the Bush administration act. This would demonstrate to the world that the United States is serious about promoting democracy, counter-terrorism, and limiting the spread of Islamic fundamentalism.

Moreover, Somaliland's claim to independence would serve as a bulwark against radical ideologies in the Horn of Africa. It would also be a model of democracy and Islam.

Legal case for recognition

The political case for Somaliland recognition is valid and immutable. It represents the interests of Somaliland's people and the future of its country, fostering regional prospects, peace, and security. It is also genuine, and based on the founding principles of sovereignty set forth in the Montevideo Convention.

Although the African Union has ruled out changing the boundaries of former colonies, they are unlikely to recognise Somaliland as a nation-state. This is because the African Union is concerned about the precedent being set by the secession of South Sudan. However, Pretoria does not consider that precedent to be valid, and considers that South Sudan was always separate from Sudan. Moreover, Somaliland's independence is barely discernible from the rest of Somalia.

While many countries are hesitant to recognize Somaliland, some countries have been more sympathetic to its cause. For example, Britain is a former colonial power and has supported the cause of Somaliland. This is a major argument for Somaliland, and is used by the government of Hargeisa as the legal basis for its demand for recognition.

AU's mixed signals on recognition

There are mixed signals on the AU's decision on Somaliland recognition. The AU has not officially recognized Somaliland and has been reluctant to do so, despite the growing cooperation between the two states. Some scholars say that the international community has not fully accepted Somaliland's independence, because it would undermine the unity and territorial integrity of Somalia. Those who criticize the AU's position on Somaliland's status argue that the problem may start in Africa.

The lack of de jure recognition has caused Somaliland to suffer and is detrimental to the country. While this lack of recognition may not have a fundamental role in the survival of the state, it has a substantial impact on the country's international relations. The current international system demands that states interact with each other, and it is impossible to have this kind of relationship without recognition.

While the federal government of Somalia controls only a small part of the country, much of southern Somalia is still under the control of Al Shabaab. The federal government's forces are mostly in urban centres and some rural areas, but they are not omnipresent. As a result, many people look to Al Shabaab for justice.

UK's opposition to recognition

The UK's opposition to Somaliland recognition demonstrates the incoherence of its foreign policy. The country broke away from Somalia in 1991 and has been seeking international recognition ever since. Recent developments in Somaliland have exacerbated tensions, particularly since President Muse Bihi's decision to allow new political associations. Opposition leaders have questioned the move and criticised the President.

In light of these recent developments, HM Government should support the UN process and recognize Somaliland as an independent country. This would honour the rights and freedoms of Somalilanders. The recent free and fair elections were a significant issue in the debate. But despite the huge turnout, the government's representatives and officials insisted on the status quo.

The UK government's opposition to Somaliland recognition has led to a debate within the international community about the future of the country. The UK is a key stakeholder in the United Nations Security Council, which oversees these processes. But, so far, there have been few signs that the United Kingdom will recognise Hargeisa as an independent state.