Somaliland

Somaliland is a self-declared sovereign state in the Horn of Africa that governs the northwestern Somali peninsula. It has maintained its own government, legal framework, and security forces since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991. Internationally, Somaliland is not widely recognized as an independent state and is considered part of Somalia by most governments. The capital and largest city is Hargeisa; major towns include Berbera and Burao.

Historical background and government: Somaliland traces its roots to the British Somaliland protectorate and restored its institutions after the Somali civil war. In 1993 it adopted a transitional constitution and established a presidential republic with a multiparty system. Legislation is enacted by a bicameral Parliament—the House of Representatives and the Guurtida (House of Elders). The executive is headed by a president.

Geography and people: Somaliland occupies the northwestern tip of the Somali Peninsula, with a coastline along the Gulf of Aden. It borders Ethiopia to the south and west and the Puntland region to the east; the border with Djibouti is not a land boundary. The population is predominantly Somali, Islam is the main religion, and Somali is the primary language, with English and Arabic used in education.

Economy and security: The economy relies on livestock, remittances, and cross-border trade. Berbera port is a regional logistics asset, with efforts to expand infrastructure and energy capacity. The Somaliland shilling is the official currency, though the US dollar is widely used. Security forces and civil administration provide governance, and Somaliland remains relatively stable; disputes with Puntland over Sool and Sanaag have occurred.

International status: Somaliland maintains informal relations with several states and international organizations but lacks formal recognition by the United Nations or the African Union. It seeks greater international engagement through governance and development initiatives while pursuing potential recognition.