Between Statehood and Somalia: Reflections of Somaliland Statehood

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somalilandsun – The Republic of Somaliland meets the requirements set forth under the
Montevideo Convention. It has a permanent population, a defined
territory, a functioning government, and has the ability to enter into
relations with other states. As a result, declaratory theory should recognize
the Republic of Somaliland as a state within the international community.
Somaliland meets the first criterion with its growing, yet defined,
population despite the nomadic nature of its inhabitants. In 1999,
Somaliland had a defined population of 3,390,000.139 Since then,
Somaliland‘s defined population has likely experienced a marked increase
due to continued repatriation. As the population of Somaliland has
grown, various clan families have started to significantly identify with the
territory. Indeed, Somaliland‘s large nomadic population poses no
impediment to recognition because a substantial number of permanent
inhabitants remain.
The second criterion is met because the territorial boundaries of
Somaliland stretch 68,000 square miles, corresponding roughly to its
colonial boundaries.The territory includes five former regions of
Somalia, however, its eastern border has been the subject of constant
dispute.As a result of this territorial conflict, ―it might be contested that
Somaliland has a clearly defined territory. Nevertheless, international
law does not require definitively drawn boundaries.

This argument is offered by Dimitrios Lalos of Washington University Global Studies Law Review in a paper titled Between Statehood and Somalia_ Reflections of Somaliland Statehood

1 COMMENT

  1. I fully endorse all the sentiments expressed on this page by Mr. Dimitrios.They are based on facts. Nothing can be farther from the truth.Only the truth will set Somalis free.Any attempt to distort history will never succeed. I urge the international community to walk the talk on Somaliland and to do the needful and the necessary.