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Somaliland, a self-declared independent nation in the Horn of Africa, is seeking international recognition while facing serious accusations of human rights abuses. Despite its claims of stability and democratic governance, reports highlight significant restrictions on freedoms, particularly regarding religion and sexual orientation. Since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has argued it meets the essential criteria for statehood, including a permanent population and functioning government. While the international community has largely withheld recognition, speculation has emerged regarding potential support from the upcoming Trump administration, driven by Somaliland's strategic location. However, the region's appeal for legitimacy is jeopardized by ongoing human rights violations. A notable concern is the treatment of religious minorities and the criminalization of homosexuality, which could hinder its acknowledgement by Western democracies. The Somaliland Constitution, influenced by Sharia law, restricts religious freedoms, while LGBTQ+ individuals face imprisonment and social stigmatization. Recent developments have intensified the debate over Somaliland's independence, splitting public opinion among various clans and political factions. The predominantly Isaaq clan supports independence, while other groups express reservations, viewing it as a threat to Somalia’s integrity. Human rights advocates urge the Somaliland government to address these violations to bolster its recognition efforts. The administration, led by President Abdirahman Irro, is under increasing pressure to reform and protect individual rights, as potential international support hinges on its commitment to ending discrimination and oppression.

Many residents of Somaliland are optimistic that the United States may soon recognize their self-declared republic under the presidency of Donald Trump. Somaliland has functioned as a de facto nation-state since declaring independence from Somalia 33 years ago amid civil war. University student Aisha Ismail expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Donald is our saviour," while others in Somalia remain skeptical about this potential recognition. Influential Republicans are advocating for acknowledgment of Somaliland, including Congressman Scott Perry, who recently introduced a bill for formal recognition. This follows a roadmap for Trump's second term revealing that Somaliland and Djibouti are significant to U.S. interests in the region, though it notes that African issues are not high on the administration's agenda. Critics, such as Somalia's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar Balcad, argue that recognition would undermine Somalia's sovereignty and destabilize the region. Concerns over U.S. troop withdrawal from Somalia, especially in light of ongoing threats from terrorist groups like al-Shabab, add another layer of complexity to this issue. While Somaliland’s Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan views potential recognition as a transactional opportunity, experts highlight that Trump's administration could prioritize U.S. interests over other concerns. The future of U.S.-Somaliland relations remains uncertain, but significant shifts in policy are anticipated as the world watches the evolving dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

Somalia and Ethiopia have officially agreed to restore diplomatic relations, following a significant thaw in their ties after a year-long dispute. This development comes on the heels of Somalia's severance of relations over an access agreement that Ethiopia signed with the separatist region of Somaliland. The joint declaration was made after an unanticipated visit from Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa. Both nations have committed to enhancing bilateral relations through the establishment of full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals. Ethiopia's state minister for foreign affairs described the agreement as a "big milestone forward" for the relationship between the two countries. The fractured relations stemmed from a controversial memorandum Ethiopia signed with Somaliland earlier this year, which Somalia perceived as a threat to its territorial integrity. The memorandum allegedly included terms for Ethiopia to secure port access in exchange for recognizing Somaliland's independence—a claim not acknowledged by Somalia or the international community. The diplomatic fallout had led to heightened tensions and the potential risk of undermining security cooperation against the militant group al-Shabaab in Somalia, where Ethiopian forces play a crucial role in peacekeeping operations. Despite prior plans to reconsider Ethiopian troop presence in Somalia, officials from both countries have indicated a willingness to resolve their differences through dialogue. Discussions for reconciliation were reportedly facilitated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who hosted negotiations that resulted in a declaration aimed at addressing shared concerns. The recent engagement indicates a shift towards normalization, with further talks planned between the leaders to solidify cooperation in various spheres.