The Recognition Deadlock: Somaliland’s Diplomatic and Political Stalemate

Year 2025, Volume: 17 Issue: 1, 13 - 36, 31.10.2025

Abdiwahab Sheikh Abdisamad

Abstract

This paper explores how Somaliland, a self-declared state in northwest Somalia, seeks international recognition, particularly from countries opposed to the territorial integrity of the Somali Republic. It argues that Somaliland's quest for recognition is currently a diplomatic and political stalemate, making it unsustainable in both short and long term. The paper examines Somaliland's persistent, yet, elusive efforts to gain international state recognition from an outside perspective, monitoring the situation for an extended period. It contends that Somaliland's pursuit is hindered by three main obstacles: the lack of support from great powers, the position of its parent state, and internal dynamics that threaten Somaliland's sustainability

Keywords

Somaliland , International Recognition , Diplomatic Deadlock , Great Powers , Somali Republic

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