Somaliland has demonstrated its capacity to operate as an autonomous state for over thirty years, maintaining stability, democratic government, and economic growth. Despite numerous attempts to engage in talks with Somalia, little real progress has been made, especially on the crucial subject of Somaliland’s sovereignty. Somaliland needs to make a clear statement that it will not engage in any more talks with Somalia until Somaliland’s independence is recognized.
Repeated Betrayals and Failed Conversations:
Repeated Betrayals and Failed Conversations Somaliland and Somalia have engaged in many rounds of negotiation since 2012. These conversations never touched on the core issue of Somaliland’s sovereignty, instead concentrating on pragmatic issues like airspace management. Somalia’s insincerity in recognizing Somaliland’s independence became evident when negotiations collapsed in 2015. Further discussions are pointless because Mogadishu has continuously rejected any suggestions that recognize Somaliland as a distinct entity since that time. Prolonged, fruitless negotiations simply serve to postpone Somaliland’s justifiable bid for international recognition.
Somalia’s Ongoing Hostility Towards Somaliland:
In addition to showing a lack of goodwill, Somalia’s actions over the years have deliberately threatened Somaliland’s sovereignty:
Political and Military Interference:
Increased tensions and military battles in Lascanood and Sool have resulted from Somalia’s persistent meddling in Somaliland’s domestic affairs, including illegal visits to Somaliland areas.
Economic Obstruction:
The Berbera Port development agreement with DP World and Ethiopia has been fiercely resisted by Mogadishu, which has even declared it “null and void.” The stability and economic progress of Somaliland are at risk due to this animosity.
Airspace Disputes:
Despite previous agreements, Somalia blatantly disregarded Somaliland’s authority by unilaterally attempting to control its aviation.
These actions show that Somalia wants to undermine Somaliland’s advancement rather than promote peaceful cohabitation. It is not just ineffective but also a threat to Somaliland’s sovereignty to continue talks with a party that consistently opposes its interests.
The Economic Development and Functional Statehood of Somaliland:
Somaliland has established a viable state with democratic institutions and economic resilience, in contrast to Somalia, which remains plagued by violence and political instability:
Democratic Governance:
Compared to Somalia, Somaliland has excelled in preserving democratic values through free and fair elections.
Economic Development:
Steady economic growth has been driven by the private sector, primarily through livestock exports and the strategically important Berbera Port. Somaliland’s position as a major regional economic force is further cemented by recent trade deals with Ethiopia and DP World.
International Engagement:
Somaliland has built direct ties with international partners, eschewing Mogadishu’s influence, while not yet receiving official recognition. Somaliland’s future is better served by fortifying these connections than by pursuing pointless talks with Somalia.
The Dangers of Ongoing Conversation:
Instead of wasting time on futile negotiations, Somaliland should focus on:
- Increasing diplomatic efforts to obtain bilateral recognition from important regional and international actors.
- Strengthening trade agreements and infrastructural initiatives that support Somaliland’s self-sufficiency to increase economic independence.
- Strengthening military and security measures to shield Somaliland’s territorial integrity from outside threats.
Somaliland has made too much progress to be drawn into yet another round of unproductive negotiations and empty promises. Without acknowledgment, dialogue is pointless. It’s time to make a moral decision: unless Somalia recognizes the independence of Somaliland, there should be no further talks. Somaliland must express its legitimate position in the international world without being constrained by fruitless talks with Mogadishu. To ensure its future as a fully acknowledged, independent country, Somaliland must forge its own path.
Abdulrasaq Cadami Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) Political Analyst and Commentator Focus on Horn of Africa Affairs