Why Is a Functioning Democracy Punished?

Eng.Abdi Ali Barkhad 
Hargeisa, Somaliland   

Despite three decades of peace, democratic elections, and functioning governance, Somaliland continues to be sidelined by the international community.  “The world is tired of Somaliland being ignored,” reflects not just political disappointment but also a sense of injustice.

Here are a few key truths behind this sentiment:

 Somaliland’s Stability Is Rare in the Region

• While many parts of the Horn of Africa are marked by conflict, terrorism, or authoritarianism, Somaliland has maintained peace, regular elections, and a functioning state with institutions like a judiciary, parliament, and police force.

 Democracy Without Recognition

• Somaliland has held multiple peaceful transitions of power, including competitive presidential elections — something many recognized African states have not achieved.
• Yet, it remains unrecognized, not even as a de facto state in most diplomatic language.

 Why Is the International Community Hesitant?

• African Union precedent: Many fear that recognizing Somaliland could trigger secessionist movements elsewhere.
• Somalia’s territorial claim: Mogadishu strongly opposes recognition and is backed by international players who still push for “territorial integrity.”
• Geopolitics: Major powers prioritize short-term alliances over long-term democratic stability, focusing on actors they see as useful — often ignoring justice or democratic values.

 Double Standards?

It’s not hard to see a double standard when new states like South Sudan are quickly recognized amid violence, while Somaliland is penalized for being peaceful and democratic.

Time for a Global Reassessment

My message highlights the need for a realignment of global diplomacy — where stability, democratic values, and local legitimacy are rewarded, not ignored.

Until then, Somalilanders have every right to question the motives of a global system that claims to value democracy but often fails to support those who practice it.

 The World Is Tired of Ignoring Somaliland

For over three decades, Somaliland has stood as a rare example of peace, democracy, and stability in the Horn of Africa. While the region struggles with conflict, authoritarianism, and insecurity, Somaliland has built a functioning state — complete with regular democratic elections, peaceful transitions of power, and public institutions that serve the people.

Yet, despite these undeniable achievements, the international community continues to turn a blind eye.

Why?

Why Is a Functioning Democracy Punished?

Somaliland is one of the few African territories where elections are credible, leadership is contested, and civil society thrives. In any other context, these would be celebrated and rewarded with international recognition and support.

But instead, Somaliland is told to wait. To compromise. To remain in political limbo — all for the sake of a unity that died in 1991 when Somalia collapsed and Somaliland reasserted its independence.

The Hypocrisy Is Clear

The world rushed to recognize South Sudan amid war and chaos. Yet Somaliland, peaceful and democratic, remains in the shadows. It’s a bitter irony: those who resort to violence are heard, but those who choose peace are silenced.

 Global Politics vs. Local Realities

The refusal to recognize Somaliland is not about legality — it’s about geopolitical convenience. Powerful nations prioritize their short-term interests and fragile alliances over moral consistency. The African Union fears setting a precedent, and some global actors still cling to the outdated dream of a unified Somalia, a dream that no longer reflects reality.

The People Have Spoken

Somaliland isn’t asking for a favour. It’s asking for fairness. Its people have spoken through the ballot box, through their institutions, and their actions.

And now the world must answer: Does democracy still matter? Does stability count? Or is recognition reserved only for those who disrupt and destroy?

To the international community: the world is tired of silence. Somaliland exists. It works. It leads by example. It’s time for recognition.

Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad is a Somali industrial engineer, political analyst, and writer known for his in-depth commentary on the politics of the Horn of Africa and international relations. He has published numerous articles analyzing current policies in the region and is a strong advocate for the cause of the Republic of Somaliland. His insights have been featured on platforms such as the Araweelo News Network. He can be reached at :  tra50526@gmail.com   

Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com           

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