The AU's Indecision and the Decision of the Somaliland People

The AU's Indecision and the Decision of the Somaliland People

Somaliland has always strived to achieve international recognition, despite the challenges it faces with the African Union (AU). The people of Somaliland view the AU as an organization that lacks the power to make effective decisions that reflect Somaliland's desire for independence. Instead, they focus on engaging with the rest of the world outside the AU. In relation to the AU, Somaliland feels that the organization does not take meaningful actions to support the people of Somaliland and their right to self-determination, as well as the fact that it does not recognize their distinctive borders from Somalia.

AU and Its Inability to Make Effective Decisions

From Somaliland's perspective, the AU is an organization that was created for specific purposes but is unable to make meaningful decisions regarding Somaliland’s situation. The AU stands firmly on the principle that the borders of African countries should not be altered, but the people of Somaliland argue that this principle is irrelevant when it comes to their case. Somaliland has its own unique borders, distinct from those of Somalia, and historically was a separate entity before merging with southern Somalia. The union of these two territories, however, ended in failure, which led the people of Somaliland to decide to declare their independence once again. Therefore, they believe that their decision to become independent is legitimate, as their historical separation from Somalia was based on a distinct set of circumstances.

The Issue of African Borders: A Failed Principle

The African Union has consistently maintained that the borders of African countries should remain unchanged, and this principle has shaped much of the continent’s political structure. However, the people of Somaliland view this principle as irrelevant to their situation. Somaliland was once an independent state with its own borders, and it merged with Somalia under an agreement that ultimately proved unsuccessful. After the collapse of this union, Somaliland declared its independence, and the people believe that their right to self-determination should be respected, as their territorial situation was different from that of Somalia.

The Historical Decision of Union and Independence

Initially, the people of Somaliland made the decision to unite with southern Somalia, but after this union failed, they declared their independence. This decision has been widely accepted by the people of Somaliland as a legitimate one, as they argue that the union with southern Somalia failed to achieve the intended results and instead led to further conflict. As a result, the people of Somaliland believe that their decision to return to independence was the right one, and they have remained steadfast in this belief ever since.

The Lack of Action from the AU and Strengthening Relations with the Rest of the World

The people of Somaliland have continuously asserted their right to self-determination, arguing that the African Union has failed to recognize their legitimate claims. The AU is seen as an organization that lacks the power to address the issues surrounding Somaliland’s independence effectively, given its focus on maintaining territorial integrity across the continent. This perception has led the people of Somaliland to focus on building relationships with other countries that are more receptive to their aspirations for recognition and independence.

Somaliland feels that the AU consistently fails to address its unique situation, and they believe the organization is not capable of making decisions that align with their interests and aspirations. As a result, Somaliland has placed greater emphasis on strengthening ties with the international community outside the AU, seeking support and recognition from countries that understand their context.

Conclusion

Somaliland continues to demonstrate that the African Union does not adequately represent their circumstances. The decision of the people of Somaliland to seek independence is based on their right to self-determination, and they believe the AU has failed to take meaningful action regarding their case. Therefore, Somaliland continues to pursue a path of engagement with the international community at large, distancing itself from the AU, which they view as an organization that has not acted in their best interests.

Moreover, Somaliland is determined to engage with the world on its own terms, without relying on or seeking approval from the African Union, which they see as an entity that does not reflect their unique circumstances. Despite the many challenges, Somaliland remains committed to its goal of achieving international recognition, continuing its efforts until it is fully recognized as an independent state.