U.S. Recognition of Somaliland Gains Momentum Amid International Praise for Democratic Elections

By: Mohamed Duale, HornDiplomat

The United States has intensified its engagement with Somaliland following its recent peaceful and democratic presidential election. With congratulatory messages from the U.S. State Department’s Africa Bureau and growing speculation about potential recognition under a Donald Trump presidency, Somaliland’s quest for international legitimacy is gaining renewed traction.

State Department Commends Somaliland’s Democracy

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the U.S. State Department Africa Bureau celebrated Somaliland’s electoral success and pledged collaboration with President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro. The message read:

“Congratulations to the people of Somaliland on their peaceful and democratic election. We look forward to working with President-Elect @Abdirahmanirro to advance peace, stability, and prosperity.”

This endorsement underscores the U.S.’ acknowledgment of Somaliland’s democratic governance and its potential role in fostering stability in the Horn of Africa.

Trump and Somaliland: A Potential Game-Changer

Former UK Defence Secretary Sir Gavin Williamson has revealed that Donald Trump, if he were to return to office, could recognize Somaliland as an independent state. Sir Gavin, a long-time advocate for Somaliland’s sovereignty, has engaged extensively with Trump’s team to advance the case for recognition.

Speaking to The Independent, Sir Gavin stated:

“They should agree to it, though when he assumes office it will probably all take a little longer than we hope. But had really good meetings with his policy leads so fingers crossed.”

He also highlighted Trump’s discontent with President Biden’s reversal of his troop withdrawal order from Somalia, suggesting this could motivate Trump to pursue recognition as a way to assert his policy priorities in the region.

Strategic Value of Somaliland

Somaliland’s strategic location along the Red Sea, coupled with its stability and democratic governance, makes it an appealing partner for Western powers. The Berbera Port, a critical asset for regional trade and security, could play a pivotal role in future cooperation.

Recognition of Somaliland could allow Western allies, including the U.S., to formalize agreements for using the port for military and humanitarian operations, bolstering efforts to secure the Red Sea, a vital international waterway.

Peter Pham, a former U.S. Special Envoy to the Sahel, emphasized this point, stating:

“A smooth election in Somaliland will, in addition to its other achievements, undoubtedly strengthen its case in an overall policy review.”

Democracy as a Cornerstone of Legitimacy

Somaliland’s recent election, where opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro emerged victorious with a 64% voter turnout, has drawn praise from international observers. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, highlighted Somaliland’s democratic character:

“Congratulations to the #Somaliland people on another successful one-person, one-vote election. This election reaffirms Somaliland’s unique democratic character and further highlights why the U.S. should shift to a more pragmatic approach toward Somaliland and the region.”

These statements reinforce the growing recognition of Somaliland as a beacon of democracy in the Horn of Africa, contrasting with the instability and challenges in neighboring Somalia.

Challenges and Hopes

Despite Somaliland’s achievements, the Biden administration has maintained support for Somalia’s territorial integrity, consistent with traditional U.S. policy. Critics argue that this stance overlooks Somaliland’s stability, governance, and contributions to regional peace.

However, advocacy efforts like those of Sir Gavin Williamson and endorsements from entities such as Liverpool City Council, which formally recognized Somaliland earlier this year, are applying pressure for a policy shift.

A Turning Point for Somaliland?

The growing international support for Somaliland highlights its potential to emerge as a key player in regional stability and development. Recognition by the U.S., particularly under a potential Trump administration, could pave the way for other nations to follow suit.

For Somaliland, this would not only mean greater international legitimacy but also access to economic and security partnerships that could strengthen its position in the Horn of Africa.

Locally, Somalilanders view these developments as validation of their decades-long efforts to maintain peace, stability, and democratic governance. The peaceful transfer of power and the strategic significance of Somaliland’s location place it at the center of evolving geopolitical dynamics.

With momentum building, the dream of international recognition may be closer than ever for the people of Somaliland.

SOURCE: HORNDIPLOMAT