For over three decades, the people of Somaliland have quietly built something remarkable in one of the world’s most unstable regions: a stable, democratic nation. Yet, despite holding free elections, maintaining peace, and fostering a pro-Western outlook, since reclaiming it’s independence from Somalia in 1991, this nation, Somaliland remains unrecognized by the international community.
Now, a passionate call from European advocate Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn is urging the European Union and the “Free World” to change that – and fast.
In a widely shared Facebook post that’s sparked lively debate online, Fehlinger-Jahn, a vocal supporter of global democracy, lays out a compelling case. “Somaliland has waited long enough,” he writes.
“This unique success deserves justice.”
A Success Story Born from History
Somaliland’s story begins in 1991, when it reclaimed independence from the collapsing union with Somalia – a marriage that started optimistically in 1960 after the British Protectorate gained independence and joined Italian Somaliland. What followed in Somalia was decades of civil war, corruption, and extremism. Somaliland, in contrast, chose a different path.
Today, it boasts:
An independent constitution and regular free elections, with peaceful power transfers that are rare in Africa.
A multi-party system and pluralistic media.
Internal security and rule of law, with defined borders and effective control by its own forces.
“It’s not rebellion; it’s reclamation,” Fehlinger-Jahn argues. Somaliland meets every criterion for statehood under international law – population, territory, government, and capacity for relations with other states. The only missing piece? Global acknowledgment.
A Bold Vision for PartnershipFehlinger-Jahn isn’t stopping at recognition. He envisions a “European Partnership Package” to integrate Somaliland strategically:
Formal EU Recognition: Opening doors to diplomacy, aid, and cooperation.
Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Boosting sectors like fisheries, agriculture, logistics, and green energy.
Euro-Pegged Currency: A new Somaliland Shilling tied to the euro for stability and investor trust – a model that’s succeeded elsewhere.
Global Gateway Infrastructure: Upgrading Berbera Port, building rail links to Ethiopia, and investing in water, power, and renewables.
OSCE Mission: Supporting elections, human rights, and governance to align with Euro-Atlantic standards.
He even suggests Somaliland adopt a 10% flat tax to attract foreign investment, positioning it as the “Singapore of the Horn of Africa.” Local business owner Mohamed Ali agrees: “Low taxes and open markets could transform us. We’re ready for the world.”
Why Now? Geopolitics and Morality
The Horn of Africa is a hotspot for global powers. China, Russia, Iran, and Gulf states are vying for influence through ports and resources. Somaliland’s strategic Red Sea location, including the vital Berbera corridor, makes it a natural ally for the West.”
Recognizing Somaliland counters authoritarian advances and stabilizes the region,” Fehlinger-Jahn says. It could open secure routes to landlocked Ethiopia and bolster Indo-Pacific security.
For Somalilanders, it’s personal.
The nation has a pro-Western tilt, functioning institutions, and a desire for integration – think IMF/World Bank access, OECD pathways, and long-term Euro-Atlantic ties.
Europe’s Moment to Lead
The EU has championed democracy worldwide, yet its “wait-and-see” approach to Somaliland feels inconsistent to many. Fehlinger-Jahn calls on Brussels to act: Recognize, trade, invest, and integrate.”
Somaliland isn’t a problem; it’s a partner,” he concludes. In a world where autocrats gain ground, rewarding democracy isn’t charity – it’s smart strategy.
Now, it’s time for the world to see it.”
Long live Somaliland – and perhaps soon, welcome to the family of nations.
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