By Abdi Daud
Australia stands at a strategic crossroads with a unique opportunity: to recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Despite having declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland remains unrecognized by any country. Yet, such a move by Australia could bolster its democratic values, expand its influence in the Indo-Pacific region, and counter Chinese expansionism. Additionally, it would open doors for Australian businesses in Somaliland, Ethiopia, and beyond.
Failure to recognize Somaliland could leave a diplomatic and strategic vacuum, potentially filled by Houthis, terrorist organizations, China, and other authoritarian regimes. In contrast, taking the lead in recognizing Somaliland would align Australia with a regionally stable and democratic partner.
From 1827 to 1884, Britain established Somaliland as a protectorate through treaties with local clans. On June 26, 1960, Somaliland gained independence, only to unite voluntarily with Somalia four days later to form the Somali Republic. However, this union was never legally formalized and was rejected by Somalilanders in a 1961 referendum. By 1991, Somaliland reasserted its sovereignty and has since operated as a de facto independent state for over 30 years.
Contrasting sharply with the turmoil in Somalia, Somaliland boasts consistent and peaceful democratic governance. Despite imperfections, it stands as a model of resilience and stability in the global south, with an estimated population of 5.9 million.
Like Lithuania, Somaliland hosts a de facto Taiwanese embassy, defying Chinese pressure to close it. This stance is reminiscent of Chinese activities in the Solomon Islands. Australian recognition of Somaliland could counter China’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland maintains strong relations with Britain, the UAE, Kenya, and Taiwan, all while opposing China’s Belt-and-Road initiative. Recent US engagements, including visits by Congressional staff and exploration of increased collaboration through the US National Defense Authorization Act 2023, highlight Somaliland’s growing international presence. In the UK, the issue of Somaliland’s recognition has gained traction, with discussions reaching high levels of government.
In January, Ethiopia and Somaliland signed a historic memorandum of understanding, granting Ethiopia sea access in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s sovereignty. This strategic alignment mirrors a 2016 agreement involving DP World to develop the port at Berbera, which the World Bank recently ranked as Sub-Saharan Africa’s most effective port.
Global companies like DP World, Trafigura, and Taiwan’s CPC Corporation have invested millions in Somaliland. Collaborations with Taiwan have led to significant discoveries, such as a massive lithium deposit, attracting foreign investments. Australian mining companies could benefit from Somaliland’s untapped reserves of oil, gemstones, gold, iron ore, tin, and lead.
Critics argue that recognizing Somaliland might encourage secessionist movements in Africa. However, Somaliland’s case is unique. It gained independence from Britain initially as a state, aligning with the principle of state continuity, similar to the Baltic republics’ recognition after the Soviet Union’s collapse. This historical sovereignty supports Somaliland’s claim.
Ethiopia’s support for Somaliland’s recognition, despite its ethnic diversity, further underscores Somaliland’s distinct status.
Australia has previously been proactive in recognizing new states, such as Kosovo and East Timor, based on self-determination and democratic governance. It is time for Australia to extend the same recognition to Somaliland.
Statistical Information of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs)
This Statistical Abstract is the prime annual publication through which the Central Statistics Department (CSD) disseminates key statistical information derived from the latest surveys and administrative records of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This 21st edition covers Demographic, Socio-economic, Production, and Macroeconomic sectors based on the financial year from January to December, depending on data availability. This information is critical for tracking progress, implementation, decision-making, and service delivery.
Key Statistics
- Population and Demographics: Somaliland’s total population is estimated at 5.9 million. The urban population constitutes 53%, with a population density of 22 persons per square kilometer .
- Economic Indicators: The GDP per capita in 2022 was $788 USD, with an inflation rate of 9.4% .
- Education: Primary schools increased from 1,238 in 2021 to 1,475 in 2022. Secondary schools rose from 194 to 213 during the same period .
- Health Services: Public hospitals increased from 21 in 2019 to 29 in 2022, while private hospitals numbered 30 in 2022 .
- Employment: The total number of civil servants grew from 18,575 in 2020 to 25,510 in 2022 .
The CSD welcomes constructive comments from stakeholders to enhance future publications. The full publication is available on the Ministry of Planning and National Development’s website.
This information provides a comprehensive understanding of Somaliland’s socio-economic and administrative landscape, reinforcing the strategic benefits of recognizing its independence.
Ministry of Planning and National Development (govsomaliland.org)
Abdi Daud, a Somalilander Australian and member of the Association of Somaliland Community in Australia, advocates for this strategic move. Daud, a lead architect at a fintech company in Melbourne, has also contributed to the Somaliland Chronicle, the leading English-language news outlet on Somaliland.
#RecognizeSomaliland #AustraliaDiplomacy #SomalilandIndependence #GlobalPolitics #DemocraticGovernance #IndoPacificStrategy #EconomicOpportunities #CounterChineseInfluence #AfricanDevelopment
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