A Legal Analysis of Somaliland's Quest for Statehood under International Law

Abstract

Purpose: The military dictatorship of Siad Barre in Somalia was overthrown, and Somaliland immediately declared its independence, withdrawing from the union with Somalia on May 18, 1991. Nearly three decades have passed since Somaliland proclaimed its independence, established its own government, maintained stability, and preserved peace. However, the international community has not yet recognized its claim. Among the remaining territories of the former Somali Republic, Somaliland stands out as the only one that has successfully established a democratic, stable government and long-lasting peace in the region. Somaliland, like many other African nations, was once a colony of the British Empire and contends that it should be recognized as an independent state. Methodology: This essay employs a qualitative research methodology, relying on desk reviews and content analysis, as methods for data collection. Findings: It examines the legal conceptions of statehood, from the Montevideo Convention to the more recent emphasis on self- determination, before addressing the situation in Somaliland. Unique contributor to theory, policy and practice: It argues that Somaliland deserves statehood status, and that other nations should recognize it as such, as there is no legal basis under international law to do otherwise.