F.A.Q’s
Isn’t Somaliland the same as Somalia?
No. Somaliland, a former British protectorate initially became independent in 1960. It then attempted a trial union with Somalia which failed badly and in 1991 the union was annulled by a judge and Somaliland reclaimed its independence and now was its own stable government, economy and currency. Unfortunately, the international community has failed to recognise this.
Won’t recognising Somaliland as independent further destabilize Somalia?
Quite to the contrary. Recognising Somaliland’s independence will send a signal to other nations that the UK supports and encourages those countries who choose to embrace Islam in a moderate, peaceful and forward-thinking manner and in doing so help to ensure the continued social and economic prosperity of their respective nations. Somaliland should be proudly help up as an example of what is possible in post-conflict countries as well as providing tried-and-tested ideas on how success can be realistically achieved.
What difference will international recognition make to Somaliland?
Once Somaliland becomes officially recognised by the international community, this will have a huge impact on its economic development. It will be able to negotiate better trade relationships and agreements to help ensure economic prosperity and it will also be able to develop other areas, such as tourism to help ensure the continued stability and success of the country. Such recognition and assistance will also act as an incentive to other developing countries who will be able to see the rewards on offer, to adopt a similar approach and work toward democracy and stability.
Why won’t the international community officially recognise Somaliland’s independence?
The international community is reluctant to officially recognise Somaliland’s independence for a number of reasons, mostly related to the general idea of “not wanting to rock the boat”, so to speak. There are (unfounded) concerns that recognising Somaliland will further destabilise Somalia and that doing so may also set a dangerous precedent encouraging other African countries to attempt to secede. Such arguments don’t hold up to scrutiny, however. Somalia is already a failed state and the fact that Somaliland has not only managed to distance itself from the situation, but also go on to enjoy stability, democracy and success is surely something to be recognised and applauded? Secondly, Somaliland is not asking to secede from Somalia. It is already an independent country – it is just looking to the international community to officially recognise this.
How can I help/get involved?
We are not asking for any money to help. Instead, we urge you to get in contact with your local MP and/or the media and make them aware of what is going on
independentsomaliland 
Mar 22, 2012 @ 02:17:48
Are there particular talking points you suggest for citizens of the UK, Italy and/or the US when they speak to their government? Some of these governments wish the AU to identify Somaliland as an independent state prior to other recognizing. Is it of any use for people in these countries to contact the AU? If so…who should they contact, and how?
Mar 22, 2012 @ 12:30:17
I have, up until this point, been dealing with the UK government. As Somaliland used to be a British protectorate, and Somalilanders are now looking to the UK government to officially recognise Somaliland’s sovereignty, I find it outrageous (personally) that the UK government is refusing to do so, especially when we have an official document, written in 1960, outlining the fact that Britain recognises Somaliland as a sovereign nation. This was complicated slightly by the temporary union with Somalia, but the union was never ratified (a view which was upheld by a judge), so the UK has no excuse.
The Italian government may have a slightly different view as they previously held Somalia as a colony.
The main point that needs to be pushed home to all governments, however, is that while the region in general is one of violence, instability, piracy and terrorism, Somaliland remains an oasis of peace and stability. Somaliland has no issues with terrorism or piracy, and is a very moderate muslim country. The government is willing and indeed looking to work with the international community and in return has a great deal to offer, both in terms of showing that instability, piracy and terrorism are not inevitable, and can be overcome – but also for security and trade. Somaliland can boast one of the best, if not the best natural port in Eastern Africa. I’ve written a document on this which may well be up on the blog….if it isn’t, I’ll be sure to post it ASAP.
As for contacting the AU – I think, personally, that efforts would be better spent lobbying UK/US, etc, governments. The AU is understandably wary about recognising Somaliland (despite a prior fact-finding mission concluding that Somaliland should be recognised as independent). I think if we can strengthen international support for Somaliland recognition, this puts Somaliland in a much stronger position.
All the above are purely my own personal viewpoints, but hopefully I’ve been of some help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to e-mail me at va4@st-ansdrews.ac.uk