Paul Tucker
Updated on: October 11, 2024 10:05 pm GMT
As Somaliland approaches its long-anticipated presidential election on November 13, the quest for international recognition intensifies, fueled by President Muse Bihi’s bold initiatives and diplomatic successes. For over three decades, this northeastern African territory has fought for acknowledgment as an independent state, yet its aspirations have largely gone unfulfilled. However, recent developments indicate a shift in Somaliland’s geopolitical landscape that may bring it closer to achieving formal recognition.
Presidential Diplomacy: A New Era for Somaliland
Under President Muse Bihi, who took office in 2017, the push for recognition has adopted a more strategic approach. Bihi’s agenda prioritizes garnering global support, a commitment evident in his exclusive focus on official diplomatic engagements rather than personal travel. This dedication appears to be yielding results, as Somaliland’s profile grows within the international community.
Bihi’s governmental strategy has hinged upon fostering relationships with key African states, which could serve as a platform for broader recognition efforts. His administration’s recent diplomatic achievements include crucial meetings with heads of state and agreements that position Somaliland as a potential ally in regional stability.
African Partnerships
In recent years, Somaliland’s diplomatic breakthroughs in Africa have been significant. The following highlights underscore the nation’s progress:
- Guinea Conakry: In 2019, Bihi traveled to Guinea after an official invitation from President Alpha Conde. Their discussions strengthened ties, igniting concern in Somalia, which severed relations with Guinea in protest.
- Kenya: A landmark state visit in 2020 resulted in Kenya publicly recognizing Somaliland’s governance, establishing a diplomatic mission in Hargeisa, and consequently straining its own relations with Somalia. This mutual cooperation underscores Somaliland and Kenya’s shared commitment to democratic governance.
- Ethiopia: The most impactful agreement emerged at the end of 2023 when President Bihi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Notably, this MoU may pave the way for Ethiopia to become the first nation to officially recognize Somaliland, while Somaliland grants Ethiopia access to the Red Sea for 50 years.
These engagements reflect a shifting dynamic in the Horn of Africa, where Somaliland is increasingly viewed as both a strategic partner and a state demonstrating stability and democratic values.
Strengthening Ties with the U.S.
The geopolitical interests of the United States in the Horn of Africa further bolster Somaliland’s quest for recognition. Due to its critical location, Somaliland positions itself as an ally against terrorism and piracy. Notably, Somaliland’s alignment with Taiwan stands out, as it is the only region in the Horn of Africa to host a Taiwanese diplomatic office.
Following a high-profile visit by President Bihi to the U.S. in March 2024, discussions about strengthening bilateral relations gained momentum. Key developments include:
- High-level talks between Bihi and U.S. officials focused on security cooperation.
- Congressional interest in Somaliland’s stability led to proposals for including provisions related to Somaliland in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.
- A draft of the Somaliland Partnership Act to solidify U.S. legislative support for recognition is under discussion.
These initiatives demonstrate that Somaliland’s relationship with the U.S. is evolving and gaining traction within U.S. policymaking circles.
The UK’s Growing Support
The United Kingdom, a major global player, has also shown increasing interest in Somaliland. With a historical connection and a diplomatic presence, developments in British Parliament signal growing backing. Key points include:
- The first hearing in 2023 regarding a bill aimed at recognizing Somaliland’s statehood drew significant support from UK parliamentarians.
- The Liverpool City Council’s official recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty illustrates local governmental backing for this cause.
As international interest swells, Somaliland’s case for recognition is gaining traction, largely thanks to the leadership of President Bihi and the strategic vision of his administration.
Impacts of Upcoming Elections
The presidential election scheduled for November 13 is particularly significant as it represents both a vital democratic process and a potential turning point in Somaliland’s pursuit of recognition. The democratic values established under President Bihi’s leadership—such as conducting free and fair elections—are essential for showcasing Somaliland as a legitimate and stable governance model.
Political analysts believe that a successful electoral process could bolster Somaliland’s case for recognition. If the election proceeds smoothly and is internationally acknowledged, it may prompt further discussions regarding formal recognition from other nations, including those previously hesitant to engage.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Somaliland
As Somaliland inches closer to its elections and the global geopolitical landscape evolves, the potential for recognition could be more pronounced than ever. The progress made under President Bihi’s administration highlights the importance of stable governance, strategic diplomacy, and the impact of international partnerships in achieving longstanding goals.
Somaliland has been working hard to gain recognition as a country. They have built strong relationships with nearby nations and received help from important countries around the world. As Somaliland gets ready for a big election, they are hopeful that the international community will respond positively. The way the world reacts to Somaliland’s election could change everything for this unrecognized nation in the Horn of Africa.
