After 34 years of self-governance, Somaliland urges the UN and global community to recognize its established sovereignty and functioning institutions.
The recent approval of Somalia’s Human Rights Commission by the United Nations in Geneva has reignited critical debate over international justice and the recognition of political realities in the Horn of Africa. For Somaliland—a nation that has governed itself peacefully and democratically for over three decades—this development underscores the need for international institutions to distinguish clearly between Somaliland and Somalia.
Since reclaiming its independence in 1991, Somaliland has built a stable political system, conducted multiple democratic elections, and maintained a functioning state that protects the rule of law and human rights. Today, as the nation marks 34 years of sovereignty, it continues to demonstrate the principles of good governance, accountability, and peace that many recognized states still struggle to achieve.
Central to Somaliland’s progress is the Somaliland Human Rights Commission, an independent and respected national institution that operates with high integrity and professionalism. The Commission actively monitors, protects, and promotes human rights throughout the country—working closely with civil society organizations, government agencies, and international partners. Its commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity reflects Somaliland’s deep respect for the principles of international human rights and lawful governance.
In this context, treating Somaliland and Somalia as a single entity within UN mechanisms not only overlooks political reality but also weakens the foundation of fair international engagement. Somaliland’s statehood is not a theoretical aspiration—it is a functioning reality recognized by its people and validated by decades of peace, democracy, and human development.
The United Nations and the international community are urged to approach this matter with fairness, historical awareness, and a renewed sense of justice. Recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty is not an act of favor—it is an acknowledgment of fact, responsibility, and respect for self-determination under international law.
Somaliland remains open to cooperation and partnership with all global institutions but firmly stands by its independence and the dignity of its national institutions. Its Human Rights Commission, governance systems, and civil society together represent a nation that has earned its place among the community of stable and lawful states.
After 34 years of peace, progress, and democratic leadership, the world must recognize Somaliland for what it is — a sovereign nation, built by its people and grounded in justice and dignity.
About the Author
[Eng Musa Abdilaahi nour ] is a writer and political analyst based in Hargeisa, Somaliland, focusing on governance, justice, and regional diplomacy in the Horn of Africa.