It was a historic moment in the world political scene as Israel was the first nation to recognise Somaliland as an independent state officially. This has brought about international controversy, excitement in Somaliland and strong response by Somalia and other regional actors. This recognition will be a landmark to a territory that has been working in excess of thirty years as an autonomous state.
What is the actual meaning of the recognition of the Somaliland by Israel? Why now? And what might be the effect of such a decision on geopolitics, trade, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa?
This paper has clarified it all in a layman language; the history, motivations, response and the prospects of the first international acknowledgment of Somaliland.
The Background to Somaliland in a Nutshell
Somaliland is a self-proclaimed republic in the Horn of Africa. It is located in the North West of Somalia with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the Gulf of Aden as its neighbors.
In 1991, the Somali central government collapsed and Somaliland became independent of Somalia declaring itself sovereign. It has since then become self-sufficient with its own government, president, parliament, currency, security forces and democratic elections.
Although Somaliland is a stable and a relatively peaceful area in comparison with the rest of Somalia, it has not been recognised by the world as an independent state until recently.
The Recognition of Somaliland by Israel: The Case
Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state. The move is a historic diplomatic breakthrough of Somaliland that has been seeking international recognition since over 30 years.
The acknowledgement is anticipated to result in:
- Formal diplomatic relations were established.
- Trading of envoys or delegates.
- Collaboration in such spheres as security, trade, technology, agriculture, and healthcare.
In the case of Somaliland, this acknowledgment is both metaphorical and tactical, and it provides an opportunity of greater international recognition.
What is the reason Israel Recognised Somaliland?
The move made by Israel was not an overnight decision. The move was caused by a number of political, strategic and economic reasons.
Geographical Strategic Position of Somaliland
Somaliland is sited on the Gulf of Aden which is one of the most significant and important maritime routes in the world. Through this region, a significant part of the world trade goes, and shipping between the Red Sea and the Suez Canal is involved.
To Israel, reinforcement of relations in the region promotes maritime security and control in the region.
Regional Geopolitics
The Horn of Africa has turned out to be a strategic hot spot that has brought the world and regional powers together. The Israeli intervention in Somaliland is consistent with other objectives of its foreign policy, extending diplomatic ties to other states outside the conventional allies.
Security Cooperation
Somaliland has been able to exercise relative peace and stability in the volatile region. Israel appreciates alliances with governments that have the potential of supporting counterterrorism activities and regional security.
Economic and Trade Opportunities
Insomaliland, there is an opportunity in:
- Port development, Berbera Port in particular.
- Water management and agriculture.
- Technology and innovation
- Renewable energy
Since Israel has expertise in these fields, it is in their best interest to work together.
A Case in Favor of Recognition of Somaliland
The fact that Israel recognized Somaliland is important in a number of aspects.
Initial International Recognition
Somaliland is a region that was never recognised yet over thirty years had met most of the requirements of a state. The action of Israel is breaking that barrier and creating precedence.
Enhancement of Somaliland Image
The fact that a nation such as Israel recognizes Somaliland increases the credibility of the latter on the international arena. It reinforces the position of Somaliland that it should be treated as an independent nation.
Other Countries should be encouraged
This might embolden other nations to rethink their position towards Somaliland particularly those who have economic or strategic interests in the area.
Reaction from Somalia
Somalia vehemently objected to the signalling of Somaliland by Israel. The Somali government believes that Somaliland belongs to its territory and the move is an infringement of its sovereignty.
Somalia has told the international community to observe the territorial integrity of Somalia and Israel has been urged to take back its move.
This response underscores the current conflict between Somalia and Somaliland that continues to be one of the biggest barriers to international acceptance.
Regional and International Reactions
The acknowledgement has caused both positive and negative reactions all over the world.
Other nations feared that the move to recognise Somaliland would create a precedent to other separatist movements in other countries. The others are also keenly monitoring the situation until an official stand is taken.
Analysts think that the decision may also create new diplomatic opportunities, but regional actors are afraid that the move would disrupt stability in the Horn of Africa.
Effects on the Economy of Somaliland
The economic growth is one of the greatest consequences of recognition.
Growth in Foreign Investment
The recognition enhances confidence among investors. When Somaliland becomes a recognised state, businesses are likely to invest in it.
Development of Berbera Port
One of the most valuable resources of Somaliland is Berbera Port. The known fact would speed up foreign investment, trade deals and infrastructural development attached to the port.
Trade and Employment Opportunities
Diplomatic relations may result in trade agreements, the creation of employment opportunities, and access to the world market.
The Implication of This to the Horn of Africa
The Horn of Africa is already a politically sensitive region. The recognition of Somaliland by Israel may redefine the regional relationships and diplomatic ties.
Possible outcomes include:
- High competition among world superpowers.
- Changing regional trade routes.
- New security partnerships
Some are afraid of an unstable situation, whereas others are offered a structured interaction and growth.
Future Stumbling Blocks of Somaliland
In spite of this historic status, Somaliland continues to experience problems.
- Poor appreciation of other nations.
- Opposition from Somalia
- Regional block diplomatic pressure.
- Require more intense international relationships.
Being recognized by one nation is not enough. Somaliland will require prolonged diplomacy in order to become more acceptable.
Will the Other Nations Recognise Somaliland?
This is the most massive query after the decision of Israel.
Certain analysts are of the opinion that other nations that have strategic or economic interests in the region can be led by Israel. Some believe that the majority of the countries will be reluctant given that they have a relationship with Somalia and because they fear the stability of the region.
In any case, the debate on recognition of Somaliland is firmly back on the international agenda.
What Happens Next?
Within the next few months, we can anticipate:
- Diplomatic missions between Israel and Somaliland.
- New cooperation agreements
- More international debate on the status of Somaliland.
In the case of Somaliland, this will be the moment of hope, confirmation, and a new drive towards recognition by the international community.
Conclusion
The fact that Israel is the first nation to recognise Somaliland is a historic move that has extensive anticipations. It acknowledges the long history of Somaliland as a state and provides new diplomatic and economic opportunities.
Even though some obstacles still exist, this acknowledgment would lead to a new phase in the life of Somaliland. It is yet to be seen whether other countries will do the same, but one thing is definite the Somaliland pursuit of recognition has reached a new stage. Read more blogs like this only on Write for Us Hub, stay connected for more updates.
FAQs
Q. What is Somaliland?
Somaliland is an independent state located in the Horn of Africa and declared itself independent in 1991 and split with Somalia.
Q. Why has Somaliland not been a well known name?
The majority of nations consider the territorial integrity of Somalia and are afraid that its recognition of Somaliland will lead to separatist movements in other countries.
Q. How come that Israel accepted Somaliland?
Israel appreciated Somaliland because of strategic and security interests and economic interests, and stability of Somaliland in the region.
Q. Has Somaliland become an internationally recognised state?
Today Israel is the first nation to realise Somaliland. Greater international awareness is yet to be realized.
Q. What was the reaction of Somalia to the recognition?
Somalia was very adamant about the decision terming it as an infringement of its sovereignty.
Q. Will the other nations acknowledge Somaliland?
The recognition of Israel is yet unknown but this can influence other countries to change their approach.
Q. What impact will the recognition have on the economy of Somaliland?
This identification would help to increase foreign investment levels, trade and development projects, particularly in the areas surrounding Berbera Port.
Q. Is Somaliland dangerous to foreigners?
Somaliland is said to be fairly stable than the other regions of Somalia and visitors should always heed travel advisories.
Q. What is the role of the Berbera Port?
Berbera Port is a strategic trading centre that is likely to gain a lot once internationalized.
Q. What is next for Somaliland?
Somaliland will probably pay attention to the development of diplomatic relations and insist on the increased international awareness.
