An African “country” is one of the world’s “most dangerous” and doesn’t even appear on the map.
Somaliland, a self-declared republic in the Horn of Africa, has existed in political limbo since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991.
Despite functioning as a separate entity with its own government, currency, and military, Somaliland remains unrecognised by any UN member state.
Its continued bid for international recognition has been met with reluctance from global powers, leaving this territory in diplomatic obscurity.
And despite it being labelled as the eighth most dangerous country in the world, according to YouTuber Yes Theory. The country exists in relative peace.
Located in the northern part of Somalia, Somaliland has established a relatively stable democracy in stark contrast to the instability that has plagued Somalia for decades.
Following the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, Somaliland declared itself independent, citing its colonial history as a British protectorate before merging with Italian Somaliland to form modern-day Somalia in 1960.
While Somalia has struggled with civil war, insurgencies, and political dysfunction, Somaliland has held successful elections, created a functioning legal system, and maintained internal peace.
Despite its achievements, Somaliland’s push for recognition has been stymied by concerns over regional stability.
The African Union has long been wary of endorsing separatist movements, fearing that recognising Somaliland could trigger a wave of secessionist claims across the continent.
Countries like Ethiopia and Djibouti, which have geopolitical interests in the Horn of Africa, are cautious about the broader implications of Somaliland’s recognition.
Somaliland’s lack of international status hampers its development. The territory struggles with limited foreign investment and access to international aid.
However, it continues to persevere, engaging in diplomatic efforts with individual nations and maintaining informal ties with countries like the United Kingdom, Taiwan, and the United States.
These nations have not formally recognised Somaliland but cooperate with its government on certain issues, including security and economic development.
While the world acknowledges its de facto independence, formal recognition remains elusive, leaving Somaliland in a paradoxical state where it exists in practice, but not on the global stage.