Why Isn't Somaliland Internationally Recognised? | And could this change?

Somaliland is one of the most interesting cases of secession in international politics. Its 1991 unilateral declaration of independence from Somalia saw the country reclaim its status as independent country, which it had lost in 1960. Since then, it has consolidated its statehood and now functions as a state by all accepted criteria. However, despite this, it remains wholly unrecognised on the world stage. In this video, I look at why it has struggled to gain international acceptance.
Welcome to Independent Thinking. A channel dedicated to international relations, independence disputes, secession and the origins of countries.
In June 1960, the British Protectorate of Somaliland became independent. In the days that followed, it was recognised by over 30 countries. However, its statehood was short-lived. Just days later, it merged with the newly independent Italian-administered territory of Somaliland, to its south, to form the Somali Republic. However, it was not a happy union. In 1991, as Somalia descended into anarchy, Somaliland seized the opportunity to declare independence. Since then, it has managed to consolidate its independence. It is widely regarded as meeting the conditions for formal statehood. Indeed, a 2005 African Union fact-finding mission even recommended that it be recognised. However, despite its best efforts, this hasn't happened. In fact, since then, things have become even more difficult. However, balanced against this, there are some geopolitical changes that might alter things in Somaliland's favour.
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Ashgate Research Companion to Secession amzn.to/2FabXyh
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KEYWORDS
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[@JamesKerLindsay]

Well, this was a long overdue video! Many thanks to everyone who asked for it - especially Ahmed. One interesting piece of information I discovered while working on it was that the United States Secretary of State, Christian Herter, sent a formal letter of congratulations on the country’s independence, in 1960. However, the State Department insists that, despite this letter, which would usually be a clear signal of recognition, it never formally recognised Somaliland as a sovereign state. This serves to underscore the complexity of recognition - a point I emphasised in another video. Thanks so much for watching. If you found it useful, please do 'Like' and 'Share' it. Also, if you haven't already, please do consider subscribing to the channel. It helps it grow!

[@mahadmohamed9563]

Thank you very much James

[@mikejoness2041]

James Ker-Lindsay somaliland deserves recognition and I’m from Mogadishu it doesn’t make no sense they united with us and took their sovereignty back. This is the major problem why somalia won’t develop, I personally think they should go there own way so somalia can also have a good neighbours including Ethiopia and Kenya. Somaliland can help us they are the original ruling class in Somalia. We can all move forward I personally think if this carries on there will be more wars and blood shed in the Horn

[@hosseinelhosseinel3445]

@James Adams Yeah, I for one thought marching in the capital with around 1M inhabitants would attract attention from the world leaders pushing for RECOGNITION....why wouldn't politicians organise national March in the capital? I don't understand it. . Their voices and demands could have been seen!!!! Edit: And marching should only take place once a year, say in the national holidays!!!!Gathering in the streets holding the flags and Banners, imagine....that would send messages to the world...

[@musemo01]

@@mohamedamir7751 lier. Italian Somaliland and English Somaliland existed. Do whatever or pay to any analyst or lobbyists you will never divide Somalis because your clan is supremacist. In Somaliland Dhulbahante, Samaroon and other clans which form majority in Sool, Sanaag and Awdal never supported secession. U can creat your own ckan enclave but only in Waqooy Galbeed and part of Galgaduud.

[@musemo01]

@@mikejoness2041 hhhhhh clan secessionist doing anything possible to convince white naive guys. U r not from Mogadishu, qaldaan. No one in Mogadishu supports Isaaqs secession. In addition u forget to change your name. No somali person with name Mike Jones in Mogadishu. Habartaa was beenlow.

[@rocappreciater5540]

I hope Somaliland will become gain international recognition soon.... From Taiwan.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I hope so too!

[@IfrahMYusuf]

Shut up and mind your own bussness Somalia Will Always be Somalia No division

[@rocappreciater5540]

@@IfrahMYusuf Hey I'll let you into a secret. If a country can't keep a territory then they should let go of it.

[@xaajimasaleh8837]

I hope soo as soon as posible from somaliland

[@xaajimasaleh8837]

@@IfrahMYusuf please grow up dont become crazy from somaliland

[@ahmednoursaed425]

The Republic of Somaliland is a sovereign, democratic State in the Horn of Africa, sharing its borders with Djibouti to the West, Ethiopia to the South, Somalia to the East and the Gulf of Aden to the North. Despite the fact that it lacks recognition, Somaliland is one of the most stable de-facto countries on the planet, much unlike Somalia, still experiencing a myriad of issues. With unrecognized countries like Taiwan and Kosovo having emojis, it is fair to say that Somaliland deserves their own too!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Very good point! I am all for it. :-)

[@nessesitoburrito8873]

If somalia is dead why do you always talk about Somalia from 1988-2022 44 years and your clan Isaaq State has no recognition Even Donetsk and Luhansk have declared independence 5 years ago and already 6 countries already recognize it. As they say keep dreaming or when pigs fly.

[@axmedcawil1166]

Right now I am watching this video from Somaliland city laascaanood, I hope you come to Somaliland, Somaliland is safe for 95% of everyone it knows

[@mukhtar3052]

Thank you bro Love Las Anod From Burco ❤

[@abdirahmanahmed1043]

Marti Sharaf leh

[@cxarhomell5867]

Mogadishu

[@musliman8886]

Laascanod somaliland❤

[@karim102]

@@musliman8886 Laascanood Pundland Somalia.. Darwiishland..

[@kcshow704]

Somaliland is a great country with a big future

[@youngash6411]

I like that.

[@khalidupdy5207]

Country 😂😂

[@elmimusa3630]

Absolutely I agree 💯

[@libbbdssyyhujk]

khalidupdy yes country at least our capital isn’t run by the African Union and terriost

[@bobanboban577]

@@khalidupdy5207 waar Saciid bal kadaa

[@jonemike3202]

one small mistake can effect rest of your life somaliland did mistake to join somalia in 1960 somalia is failed state almost 30 years now

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Interesting point. Someone else mentioned the fact that Djibouti - which was formerly French Somaliland - didn’t make the same mistake!

[@jonemike3202]

@@JamesKerLindsay that is true but in somaliland our grandfathers did that mistake and now it affect our generation but we learn that mistake

[@jonemike3202]

@Merciful we are not talking about tribe we taking country dont confuse bro isaaq samaroon and cise is dir dribe isaq part of dir somalia only two clan can be a president hawiye and darood fix your problem somalia failed state for 30 years now

[@yahyaelmi8435]

jone mike you are recognized as a part of the “failed state “. Stop lying to yourself , Ethiopia has persuaded your politicians to divide Somalia into 2 countries but that never happened. The federal government of Somalia today is slowly recovering, but you guys talk about recogniztion when badhan and buuhodle want unity . So it will never happen 1 tribe can not divide Somalia

[@abdiadeen255]

Yahya Elmi maybe blood can divide it i have long Said to other landers that if the fought Somalia and spilled blood then the UN would divide them and somaliland would have its own country🤗

[@acacius9903]

In conclusion democracy is nonsense. Somaliland a democracy and literally did everything that is possible in a democracy yet the western democracy don't care. They care more about weak Somalia and rather throw billions upon billions ar Somalia to get it stabilized and it is still not working. Somaliland is being basically punished for having a weak neighbour like Somalia that can't get their country straight. Somaliland should give the middle finger to the bullsh*t western democracy that don't care about Somaliland independence and they should go towards Russia. Invite Russia to have military base in Somaliland near Djibouti's border where the US and other western countries have military bases in Djibouti and let the Russian put nukes too next to the western military bases on the Somaliland side. Believe me you will see the west running towards Somaliland and begging not to give Russia a military base with nukes in Somaliland and Somaliland can then demand recognition from the west. We all know how important the 'Bab Al Mandab strait' is for the western world. Somaliland is too damn nice for their own good. Always being the good kid in the classroom. Tf. They should play hard ball sometimes and demand things because they have the right to be recognised after they did all that work for 30 years.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Sadly, this is in many ways the takeaway from the situation, isn't it!? I think there is, however, a lot of sympathy for Somaliland. However, as I have shown, unfortunately, other factors seem to rank higher when other African countries, and the rest of the international community, consider Somaliland's position. But I do wonder if things might change with the unfolding geopolitical situation in the region. I didn't want to focus on this too much in the video as I wanted to focus on explaining the current situation, bu it is nevertheless an important factor to watch in the future.

[@thetruthSL]

Facade that is called 'Democracy'. Biggest lie told so far in our history of existence.

[@thetruthSL]

@@JamesKerLindsay Somaliland does not need sympathy. We need recognition so we can move on. How come the International community never questions where the millions given to SomaliA in aid goes? The current president of Somalia is the first cousin of the dictator Siad Barre....iam not saying the apple does not fall far from the tree but it is a famous saying isn't it?

[@kumekuchawafrika2495]

There is no democracy will work in Afrika my brother just think of unit. Why will Somaliland want leave other Somalis?

[@abdikarimahmad6550]

👏👏 already right now Somalia risen from the dust we don’t need any recognition and what the fuck you talking about our ( Ottoman Empire) comeback.😀

[@abdirahmanbarud9560]

James we appreciate you bro about this topic Somaliland is deserved to be recognized country Thanks

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. It is such a fascinating, but complicated, case. I had wanted to make this video for quite a while. I am really glad that I eventually did!

[@Jackrobert28]

@@JamesKerLindsay The question is why is the U.S. and allies trying to recreate Somalia as it was before? The other neighbouring countries are working well and have again pivoted to the East, is this the reason why? To counter balance Chinese influence in Kenya Ethiopia etc and stop the creation of a region power or non western block ? Please do give me a brief idea

[@Jackrobert28]

@@JamesKerLindsay Would independence not create problems for neighbouring countries with majority Somali areas and create mini states within Somalia that might cause a lot more problems? It seems like it would become more like Afghanistan / Syria and brew new conflict ?

[@jamaaldqaabil6923]

One TRIBE can not be RECOGNIZED as an INDEPENDENT nation.

[@MrBiniyaamiin]

@@jamaaldqaabil6923 i gave you this chance to say this stupid comment when we merged with somalia 1960, Somaliland was indepent country and it will be. and about the recognize , it will come no matter how long it will take, we keep asking and we build our country more strong and more peace

[@khadarmohamed6505]

Well done James, we have been waiting for this story,love from somaliland, thanks.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much! Very best wishes!

[@hassanm4489]

Somaliland is an independent state the union was never ratified so that can not be over looked because legality of the issue. It can not be compared to the secessionist movements of Eritrea and South Sudan that were rewarded with recognition to end wars because of special self interest of other nations. Somaliland voluntarily joined a union which was never ratified it didn't merely just give up its independence. Therefore recognition of Somaliland would only strengthened the stability of the Horn of Africa not destabilize it.

[@hassanm4489]

@Kainan Sugal go back to school learn history the truth will set you free.

[@raybil7628]

@@hassanm4489 Well done walahida ...don't pay attention to those hypocrites and JEALOUS of Somaliland stability, prosperity, peace and freedom. Somaliland is well known place but due to Western interest and geopolitical issue they won't recognize as FULL NATION same as POLISARIO (Western Sahara) b/c of their own interest. All we need is our peoples to be UNITED and stay together. Allah is our only ALLY Long life to Somalilander 💚🕊❤

[@jonemike3202]

@Kainan Sugal you come from failed state of somalia ?

[@ambientcalm3125]

If somaliland became independent it wouldn't create stability it would create tribal wars.

[@hassanm4489]

@@ambientcalm3125 I doubt that Somaliland already has promoted peace and stability passed three decades.

[@mahamudail7360]

Thank you.james .we are.somaliliader going work with you all the way untill we get our independent back

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you for your kind comments. I really appreciate it. Wishing you all the very best!

[@jama253]

which you will never going to get it!!

[@user-kz2op2ge6u]

Somaliland HAA NOOLATO S.N.M

[@fp6488]

Keep dreaming 〽️

[@mukhtar3052]

@@fp6488 keep crying 😭😭😭😆😂😂

[@khaledjey8472]

thanks james, come to hargeisa, Somaliland.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I would love to visit one day!

[@abdis70]

@@JamesKerLindsay Yes. Agree with you . Plz, go and eye witness the self determination of Somliland sovereignty which deserves international recognition.

[@mrhanad8148]

@@JamesKerLindsay you want to start problems in somaliland🤔❌❌ you are not traveller so don't go to somaliland🤮🤬👊👊👊👊

[@championlover7794]

Mr. Hanad hhhhhh that's the definition of emotional thinker and naive hater , why u lying and spreading false information in order to mislead those foreigners who don't know the reality on the ground which is that Somaliland is 100% peace and stable country and the only democratic nation in Horn of Africa they held every five years an election based on one man one vote compete by three different national partydd

[@ibrahimoo7820]

@@JamesKerLindsay you are most welcome to somaliland 💖💖💖💖

[@fivonnwoke5709]

Thanks James for educating your viewers. Tremendous amount of time & resources must have been invested on these videos.Your service to humanity is appreciated.

[@mohamedhussein6289]

Thanks for your help. SOMALILAND REPUBLIC WILL Never FORGET YOU.

[@mustafeAbdiqani]

#Somaliland Will be a recognized Country Insha Allah.

[@abdikoran]

Awdland will be a recognized Country Insha Allah one day

[@ambientcalm3125]

@@abdikoran galmadug will be a recognized country inshallah

[@Divine_Books]

In Shaa allah

[@Samurijack3]

Al Helal Somaliland is not country it’s a state 🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴

[@Divine_Books]

One day it will be in sha Allah 😊

[@aaminaluul4425]

And also like if you support recognition of My country,Somaliland

[@cxarhomell5867]

No, it has to reunify.

[@overtothisside504]

@@cxarhomell5867 we don't need you or want you you will your Somalia will die a faild state

[@cxarhomell5867]

@@overtothisside504 This immediately did not age well, Somalia is coming right back to its feet while you fear for the imminent future. Ain't too bright, hm?

[@musemaxamud253]

Thank you James for your explanation the case of Somaliland Big respect from berbera

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. Really appreciated!

[@user-kz2op2ge6u]

@@JamesKerLindsay REER BURCO IN THE HOUSE MAHADO

[@Terrus_38]

Wow, it's incredible, almost every video is something that you didn't know that you need to watch, but when you see it, you want, have the urge to watch it :D

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much! :-) I hope that you are keeping well.

[@Terrus_38]

James Ker-Lindsay Yes, I'm well :D What about You?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@Terrus_38 All good here. Thanks!

[@amalxuseen7166]

Wow great video Mr.James Thank you for showing the world what Somaliland is and what it deserves. thank you so much for doing this for us. I am your fans. go ahead.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Many thanks for the kind comments! Very best wishes.

[@qenimeri2]

So interesting. Huge Somali community where I live (London) some of whom, may identify as being from Somaliland. I will now do further research into the dynamics of it all. Subscribed.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate the support! Yes, indeed, there is a large ethnic Somali (and politically Somali and Somaliland) community here in London. It is a fascinating story and a very interesting relationship between Somalia and Somaliland. While they share an ethnicity, there is a strong tribal element at play. You might also want to take a look at my video on how Somalia collapsed. This led to a number of refugees who have made their home here in the UK. It is also good to see that Somalis have also gained prominence in U.K. life, including Sir Mo Farah and Rageh Omar, the journalist.

[@mua2]

@@JamesKerLindsay My family is from the territory of Somaliland (from Las Korey) but nobody in my family or clan believes in Somaliland, we’re all unionists. What many Westerners don’t fully understand is that Somaliland has a very heavy clan element, it’s basically only one clan (the Isaaq) who want to secede and there is suspicion among the other clans in the East (Darood) that their motives are simply to be the dominant clan and lord over the other clan. The Isaaq also have an animus for the larger Darood clan that is more dominant in the rest of Somalia, so they want to be a big fish in a small pond (Somaliland) rather than a small fish in a bigger lake (Somalia).

[@Sky-ez5wp]

@@mua2 lies! No lander would ever say that

[@mua2]

@@Sky-ez5wp you’re right, I’m not a Lander! I’m a citizen of Somalia, Warsangeli by birth, Sanaag will always be part of Somalia inshallah.

[@mua2]

@Osama Jama Gadabursi doesn’t want to be part of Somaliland either. It’s only one clan (Isaaq) that want Somaliland. Go take Togdheer and create your country there, but you won’t take land that doesn’t belong to you.

[@khalidashli4400]

You did a good job james Somalilander we going work with You man.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you for the kind words. Much appreciated! And do please consider sharing the video with anyone else who might be interested.

[@masp809]

It's about time!! So many people have been asking for this one!! Free Somaliland!!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks! I know that this was one that a lot of people had been waiting for. So much so, it sort of gave me performance nerves! :-) I had wanted to do it for a while. But I also wanted to try to get it right. It is such an interesting case, but, as you saw, it is also a rather difficult one to tackle because it is so complex. Somaliland really does stand out from other situations for all sorts of reasons that aren't terribly consistent or easy to explain.

[@elmikamil9487]

James Ker-Lindsay I am so sorry for you supporting for just one Tribe , read my comment. I’m from where you calling somaliland , if any one recognize Somaliland they recognize a new disaster, disgraceful , new Genocide , new Refugees, new inhumanity, and worse thing to do ever against human beings . the people believe somaliland are only one Tribe Whom are only 20% of the People live in Somaliland . people of the most regions don’t want this false recognition , they also are live in hell right now. some of them were flee from their own land , their kids get rape, kidnapped and no body can report, no justice. They control all powerful positions , like the Head of the Police of Somaliland , Highest Court Judge man, the man controls the Military , the 3 men were racing the 3 men Election Candidates , and every power full position are one Tribe . the Youth from the other Regions are full of Jail without reason because of they are not isaaq, is that can be Somaliland ? Or Dictator Tribe ?? those Majority people cannot even practice their basic things of life , such like creating income sources such like farming , building hotels, Houses, they also don’t allow to be Reporters At all , even if they be allowed Reporter and they cannot clear what is happing , if they do so , they should go Jail, Is that will be somaliland ????? I am one of those Majority people, allot of my family are in Mandheera Jail right now. we don’t have freedom of speech, freedom of working , studying , 😢 in my Homeland . They force us to study their bad black history they made. They teach our kids isaaq or SNM were Jihadist . And whom SNM killed were us, not them, then how??? this Tribe want get help and recognition from the international community or some Countries then destroy and delete all our basic rights forever, is that right to happen ???? What is called somaliland believe only one Tribe , they made their own flag , is it okey to force others to do so??? They are expecting to what ever they can delete those Majority people if they get recognition , then is that right so support??? . 😢 the biggest Regions over there such like Sanaag, Awdal , Sool and half of Togdheer are not looking for any recognition, they believe they already are Somalia 🇸🇴 and they are right. Do the international community or any Country ready to Support a new colony ??? Or give a Tribe to other Tribe ????, if yes that is shameful. SNM want to get recognition because they hate the people From Sool , Sanaag, Awdal, half of Togdheer and 5% of people also live in with them in Hargeisa, Burao and BerBera. , that is the reason they looking for this Chance and want to make a black history, they teach their kids deep hate against others, they believe and think if they be a Government they can remove those people from their land, this recognition lookers are really violators. if the recognition comes true that will be against action of those Majority people from Sool , Sanaag, Awdal, and half of Togdheer . They have a aim or purpose, once looking for recognition they only own Hargeisa and Burcao 90% other Tribes also mix and live with them like Gabooye Tribes. This crazy Tribe just want to force the Majority people of North west Somalia and North East of Somalia , because they hate them, and isaaq Tribe have all Guns and Tribal Military army, they have regular income sources like Berbera Port , Hargeisa international AirPort, they work with professional thieves and Gangsters, , and the Military army of somaliland are only from them, they don’t allow other people been in their army , just veiw thieves like them. the other Tribes are struggling for basic things of Life , because of this Tribe is kind of new regime against others , they call Majority people Minority because that is what they want do . every day others meet :- discrimination, Hate speech, Jail Abusive, isolated , corruption, E.t.c This Minority Tribe looking for recognition been killing and abusing all others from 1988 up to now because were getting weapons and from one of Somalia Neighbors , SNM have no mercy on this planet , they are criminals, they killed nearly more than a Million people for just no reason , because they were getting help from foreign army who want destroy Somalia . this Tribe collected all dead bodies bones whom they killed including their , to complain forever and hide what happened , they hiding the reality , SNM is Terrorist Group work with Gangesters and haters , regimes , they promised to drink The blood of Majority live in there , the promised to start Genocide against Majority people of North East Somalia which is Sanaag, Sool, and Half of Togdheer and also people live in West Somalia which is Awdal State betweet Hargeisa and Djibouti 🇩🇯 and if they win for the recognition, it means there is no mercy in this planet , it would be some thing against human beings, they will start looting increasing killing innocents the land of Majority , killing ,destroying basic things of life of those people and e.t.c. if this Guy talking about the recognition would know what the reality look like or what existing over there or what behind to beg a recognition he may be stop this. for sure he would not support what called recognition of somaliland if he would know the reality going on over there. If you have an interests about somaliland one remember one Devil Trible cannot help you . Somalia is one ☝️ 🇸🇴 and somali people are ☝️ there is no way to separate ☝️ land . When you talkin like this on behaving on one Tribe you hurting Millions of people’s feeling . 🛑 🛑 plz Please stop 🛑 working with Devils and evils Groups agains humanity. If you have normal heart human 🙏. We all need peace and life . Stop spreading false info.

[@A3000BC]

Miguel Alfonso Santana thank you my brother

[@yahyaelmi8435]

Your black and your name is Miguel , and you want to talk about freedom loool get out of here

[@masp809]

@@A3000BC You're welcome! Blessings!

[@HawrarLyrics]

One more point in July 1961 one year after the illegal union , there was a referendum held by the somali republic for the new Constitution , fast majority of Somaliland peaple voted against it .

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. Very good point. I think I do briefly mention it in the video. But you are right, it is an important point as it effectively demoted Somaliland in the new constitution.

[@ambientcalm3125]

How was it an illegal union? You guys chose to join somalia tf?

[@erasmusgustav4194]

@@ambientcalm3125I'm not Somali or a Somalilander so excuse me if this is inaccurate, apparently they agreed to it but never actually wound up ratifying the agreement.

[@ambientcalm3125]

@@erasmusgustav4194 ok but this flag🇸🇴 was first raised in hargeisa the capital of somaliland

[@Wars7498]

@@ambientcalm3125 yes what was Jun 26, 1960. But the union act came one year after July 1961. People of SOmaliland voting against and regardless retroactive agreements are not legal internationally

[@abdullahiahmed119]

Don't be despair my beloved Somalilanders,good things come to those who wait, we came from a long way and there's no turning baaaaaack. Thanks James it's good video.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks you. Really appreciated!

[@munamaxamud9444]

Who is your country from somaliland

[@hassanm4489]

Somaliland case is not that of secession but of a dissolution of a unratified union.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

This is a really fascinating point. I mentioned in the video that I want to return to this point, as it is an issue that often comes up. For instance, many people argue that Scotland should have an automatic right to independence on the basis of its previous independence. The same with Texas, although there doesn't seem to be such a large body of support for this. What I would say is that it was clear that before Somaliland became independent, the intention was the join with Italian Somaliland to create a new state. As this was widely understood, the merger - which, as you point out, was a union of two states - was immediately accepted by the international community as a voluntary association. The trouble is that even voluntary associations, once they have been accepted, are very hard to break unilaterally. This is the reason why Scotland can't simply break the union with the UK. As I emphasise is so many videos, the international community really does not like secession. This is the case, even if it is seemingly fully justified by a country reclaiming its previous independence. As I said in the video, I want to cover this in a future video as this is something many people often ask me about.

[@hassanm4489]

@@JamesKerLindsay Somaliland is an independent state the union was never ratified so that can not be over looked because legality of the issue. It can not be compared to the secessionist movements of Eritrea and South Sudan that were rewarded with recognition to end wars because of special self interest of other nations. Scotland union was set for a period of 300 years but somali republic union was dissembled in 1969 by former dictator of siad barre where is the union article now in the constitution? Trust me texas is doing fine in United States. What is the benefit of keeping Somaliland attached to failed state. Somaliland voluntarily joined a union which was never ratified it didn't merely just give up its independence. I understand what your saying that it's difficult for somaliland to achieve recognition but it isn't impossible. Recognition of democratic Somaliland would only strengthened the stability of the Horn of Africa not destabilize it.

[@abdijamanuur9797]

@@JamesKerLindsay we wanted 1960 the 5 somaali to unite .not only 2 state .

[@sharmarkeahmed7933]

@@JamesKerLindsay there is an other fact which is that somalia united with somaliland , for that reason somaliland is the mother country and also this gives it right to announce unilateral dissolution of the union

[@ambientcalm3125]

@@abdijamanuur9797 the 5 somali states will unite inshallah

[@18maychannel23]

Mr James thanks for your documentary video of Somaliland, keep going.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for the kind comments! Really appreciated. Do let me know if there are any other topics that you would like to see me cover.

[@18maychannel23]

@@JamesKerLindsay thanks your reply to my comment, the only topic i would like you to remind your future documentaries is somalia war planes using the airport of hargeisa and then after seconds was pumping civilians in hargeisa and i thhink that's never happen in the world yet.

[@hassanm4489]

The dialogue between Somalia and Somaliland has failed. Somaliland has to push for it's case to be heard in international forums. Somaliland never gave up its independence the union was never ratified and it's illegal and this charade has to end.

[@SaeedAhmed-oe4bf]

James, welcome to the large population of Fans and Lovers of the amazing Republic of Somaliland. Great Snapshot!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much! Very best wishes!

[@anssirulamo2298]

Thanks for the great content, really like your channel. I hope at some point you can make a video about the curious case of the Baltic states, which maintained their de jure state continuity after WWII despite being part of the Soviet Union. And then regained their de facto independence when the Soviet Union collapsed. When asked about whether to recognize Estonia's independence in 1991, the Finnish president said that there is no need to do that because Finland never withdrew its original recognition of Estonia.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for the kind comment. I really appreciate it. And thanks for the brilliant suggestion about the Baltic Republics! I actually mentioned them in a previous video I did on State Extinction and how invasion and occupation, even after decades, does not mean that a state ceases to exist. (kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5WWf3uArLd1ocU) But I have wanted to return to them in a more detailed way. I also remember going to the Museum of Occupation in Riga, Latvia, and seeing a letter from George HW Bush saying the same thing as Finland: that they had never lost their statehood and congratulating them on reining their full independence.

[@dee-jh3bl]

I think if Somaliland starts exporting it oil many countries will be interested to hear us out but for now we are only a poor underdeveloped nation to them

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Yes. This is a really interesting point. Although, as others have also pointed out, one of the reasons why Somaliland has also been left alone and has been able to develop as a state - albeit unrecognised - is because there has been little reason for anyone to get involved. In that sense, maybe having resources can be a blessing and a curse?

[@dee-jh3bl]

James Ker-Lindsay Definitely but if Somaliland starts exporting it resources it will help improve the quality of life for Somalilanders and also improve the infrastructure. But many challenges come with having resources and the outcome will depend on how these resources were handled but it’s certain it will bring so many attention both good and bad let’s hope for the best. Btw thank you for this excellent video it was really informative

[@sangarahlaal9929]

@@dee-jh3bl I would offer free oil for 10 years to any country that recognizes Somaliland first (i would take a stake in the infrastructure and 25% beyond the 10years). Soo much good oil has done for african countries. More wealth = less freedom

[@mikejoness2041]

James Ker-Lindsay I’m from somalia and we have darood bullying there way into kismayo they don’t belong their somaliland is mainly Dir clan sameroon and isaaq dulbahunte have now joined them very body knows if the get independence they will be like emirates and we will be like Nigeria

[@TheMaster4534]

And that means.... putting Somaliland on the crosshairs of US oil imperialism

[@abdilahiibrahim8109]

You continue to exceed every expectation that we set. Great job Thank you for helping the population of somaliland we r going forward

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you! I was really pleased to look at Somaliland. It is such an interesting, but also complex, case. The usual rules both do and don’t seem apply!?

[@cawoahmed3408]

Thanks James. I hope my country one day we get independence 🙏🙏🙏

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. It was such a fascinating story to tell. Good luck and best wishes!

[@osmanwarsame6151]

Thank you so much James, Indeed a long overdue information on Somaliland mission of independence. We will ensure to leave no stone unturn in our endeavors to be on the map.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment. Much appreciated. And do please share it with anyone else you know who might be interested.

[@kingdolla5547]

That well never happened

[@user-yf1uo5qw2v]

Love Somaliland from South Korea.

[@abdirahmanalimohamedabdira168]

And love South korea From Somaliland thanks bro

[@kaa8026]

Thank you James for showing the truth in Somaliland well 👏 done James 👏

[@abdymohamud2874]

Thank you sir .I just know Somaliland will never again join Union with Somalia.

[@ilyas7569]

They will I promise. The British came and ruined everything. You have been brainwashed by the white man, we are all somali and should be united.

[@ibrahimoo7820]

@@ilyas7569 how can you say that while it clear as a water that we must depart

[@ambientcalm3125]

@@ibrahimoo7820 please elaborate

[@fuadahmed5501]

@@ilyas7569 alleged ‘brainwashing’ is a weak argument for them to stay in the failed Sonali state. They’ve run their entity better over 30 years than warlord divided Somalia. So Somaliland has shown it can govern itself. Next step is eventual recognition. It will take years though.

[@mustapha1180]

Somaliland and the recognition. Congratulations to Somaliland people for what they achieved so far, Somaliland was indeed a separate country showing clearly on this interesting history who has unfortunately joined the rest of Somalia with a union but that union nevertheless has made Somalilanders happy, now that Somaliland is independent country, Somaliland has shown in the eyes of every one that they indeed are far better than the rest of the chaotic Somalia...and Somaliland is doing way more business as usual. Well done Somaliland. Thanks James for sharing with us

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment. Really appreciated!

[@AbdullElme]

Viva Somaliland

[@thetruthSL]

*Deep roots are not reached by the frost[Tolkien]* Somaliland is being held back by the International community.

[@elmikamil9487]

The Truth one Minority Tribe cannot be a Government . Hate group have not place in the planet. 🛑🛑🛑🛑 false info.

[@Wars7498]

Tamiim Taabet it’s majority is Somaliland and majority rules.

[@aa1595]

Somaliland isn’t one majority tribe. There are tribes that fought with the siad barre regime against the SNM however when the regime turned on them, they signed treaties with somaliland to join them. Somaliland isn’t a tribe. It’s a republic. They stood against oppression and they will maintain the democracy they have.

[@qalin-maal.4683]

Thanks James .. In somaliland We have been searching international recognition for almost 29 years unfortunately still we didn't get .but we hope one time it will becomes true ,roma wasn't built a day.

[@abdidaud896]

The act of union between Somalia and Somaliland didn't pass. So the argument that somaliland state gave up its independence voluntarily is not 100% satisfied. Externally it looks like we did but internally and legally Somalia just colonised Somaliland We didn't complete the process of union and what followed was war and genocide

[@mohammed-jama]

*THANK YOU SO MUCH MR JAMES KER-LINDSAY* *I WISH ONE DAY U WILL COME SOMALILAND*

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. Really appreciated! I really hope to be able to come one day. In the meantime, do please share the video with anyone else who might be interested in watching it.

[@thealifamily99]

Right now I am watching this video from somaliland and the second biggest city burco

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Great! Thanks. :-) I hope that all is well over there.

[@thealifamily99]

Yes thank yo

[@yahyaelmi8435]

abdallah stole your channel Ali adeer macaan ninkaan cadaanki been yuko sheegin midnimada Somalia Waa muqadas

[@thealifamily99]

Maxaa ku geeyay saaxib kaygee

[@axmedcawil1166]

Right now I am watching this video from Somaliland city laascaanood, I hope you come to Somaliland, Somaliland is safe for 95% of everyone it knows

[@sahraabdillahi7041]

Thanks a lot Mr James.

[@omaralkayal7598]

Congratulations my friend, this is the video we all were waiting for and now it hit 5000 views an all initial success

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks, Omar! I know that it was a long time coming, but it is such a complicated situation I really needed to find the right angle and try to get it right. But I am pleased to see that it has had so many views and there have been so many positive comments. And thank you for all the patience and support. I really appreciate it. 🙏🏻👏 I hope all is well with you.

[@adanalikahinabdi9829]

Thanks you are one of the best friend's of Somaliland

[@user-ql8ez2kh8k]

Interestingly detailed. It is interesting how countries play out diplomacy and politics and apparently adhere to "Respecting territorial integrity of countries" while we turn a blind eye to Respecting the very same rights all UN member states have signed up to to. It is important to underline the key issue here, It is not secession, but more of practicing the right to self determination and it is crucial that we must all understand and respect the rules of law that we all have to live by. The very first article of the United Nations Charter states that "The Purposes of the United Nations are 1. To maintain international peace and security, and to that end: to take effective collective measures for the prevention and removal of threats to the peace, and for the suppression of acts of aggression or other breaches of the peace, and to bring about by peaceful means, and in conformity with the principles of justice and international law, adjustment or settlement of international disputes or situations which might lead to a breach of the peace; 2. To develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, and to take other appropriate measures to strengthen universal peace; " Holding a constitutional referendum in 2001 was enough to give the voice back to the somalilanders but instead, the world chose to casually look away because it was not in the interest of individual member states of the UN. Conflict in Somalia threatens the regional stability of the Horn of Africa and beyond, The former foreign minister of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E Abdillahi Duale stated in a speech around November 2019 that "Lifting the arms embargo on Somalia would further devstate the country for many decades to come, There's enough ammunition already in somalia to destroy half the region", It could destabilise a region that is a strategic in terms of trade and maritime shipping lines but also in the brink of widespread conflict. That statement was strong and touched on the reality on the ground here in the Horn of Africa and Somaliland. The responsibility heavily lies on the hands of Organisations like the United Nations, African Union and more importantly the individual member states of each organisation to take their stand on such matters when they see that issues as such are not being brought into the attention of full cabinet and onto the General Assembly. Somalia is a member of the United States and has a seat and a representative envoy who speaks on behalf of the nation but Somaliland does not, which makes it difficult to get the voice of the Somalilander who has been stripped of the same rights that he has as the citizen living in New York and Moscow. People have the right to freely practice their right to self determination without any interference and therefore the case of somaliland is long overdue. We must respect the will of the Somalilanders if we truly are a democratic society here.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. All very good points. the problem is that self-determination is now understood in very specific ways that mean that places such as Somaliland are denied independence. States effectively have written the rules to make sure that the principle of self-determination is very limited in real terms and that the territorial integrity of states is protected as much as possible. I actually cover this very problem in another video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJzLiKJ8nteJbaM. I think you might find it useful. Also, my video on the Congo Crisis shows how this thinking against self-determination became formalised in international politics: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZeTkox5l6iLqq8 I hope they help!

[@mrhassanali3297]

Well said brother. But is it a requirement for somaliland to get permission from the south to succeed? South sudan got permission from sudan to succeed. Also eriteria got permission from Ethiopia to succeed. If the federal republic of somalia continuously refuses to grant somaliland recognition than how can it succeed. Thank you for the input. Anyways I am confused why the people of Khatumo still dont want to be apart of somaliland. Somaliland has established peace and stability for the past 30 years while the south still has suffered from political instability and terrorism

[@user-ql8ez2kh8k]

@@JamesKerLindsay Thanks for the the suggestions, will watch them . subscribed.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@user-ql8ez2kh8k Thank you very much! I hope you find them useful. I think they will help to answer some of your points. And do let me know if there are any other topics that you would like to see me cover.

[@user-ql8ez2kh8k]

@@mrhassanali3297 Permission? What permission are you talking about? There isn't anything as such iThe requirement is to fulfill the criteria for a statehood which if you watched the video, James Lidsey stated that Somaliland has fully fulfilled, the other requirement is to ensure the peoples and local population are in favor of the state that is seeking out international recognition , this can be done through referendum and that has been done, the only thing that is not done is political dialogue between the two states and that process can only be considered if the two states have functioning government with a capacity to enter into legally binding agreements, the TFG does not have any capacity to enter into talks with Somaliland due to significant instability that threatens its own existence and the peace within the region itself. Somaliland can go ahead with the talks despite what is going on in the south but we choose not to due to the fact that entering into a dialogue with a Somalia that isn't in a position to stand still on its feet may result further conflict and political vacuum across the south itself. You have a country that has been torn up into a political faction and regions run by different administrations who are not on the same page as the TFG itself which therefore could result conflict between TFG and administrations within those regions. This would jeopardise the talks and the likelihood of any outcome from such talks if leaders on one side are not on the same page and facing the same direction. Somalia needs a government that represents the people, and that can makes its own decisions as well as maintain them.

[@hamdayusuf7271]

Thanks James, keep going

[@jabdi-isaaq6721]

Thanks James ... really well done on the report, enjoyed it good job

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I hope to do more on Somaliland in the future.

[@mohamedmuse08]

I have lived in Somaliland for 9 years and I have to say that Somaliland succeeded to stablish a democratic nation in a continent known for its dictators and a peace haven in a region known for piracy, terrorism and clan wars. Even though I am from Somalia I will never deny their achievements and would be happy to see them succeed and prosper because they've all right to choose.

[@mubaariktiger4929]

James thank you bro

[@daus4315]

Thanks how you display the reality on the ground especially the Somaliland's recognition.

[@ADAM-lw5yk]

I appreciate your video cheers james

[@tereab778]

We appreciate it that you're sharing the story of my country into the world! We deserve it.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I really enjoyed looking at Somaliland. It is a fascinating situation that isn’t particularly well-known or well-understood in the wider world.

[@billetemaniacobanknotemani5880]

great video as always!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. Really kind of you to say so!

[@muusejaamac2632]

Thanks a lot. Mr James, for your information. This is every good information.

[@hamsehussein1885]

Thnks james. I think one important point to highlight is " somaliland's elections" . And other to discuss is " the difference in the two terminologies RECESSION Vs RECLAIMING SOVEREIGNTY". plus= how clanism can affect somaliland's international recognition!. Thank you.

[@asiayounis7498]

Thank you so much, i am a somalinder/Brit who lives in oxford and I would love to see you visiting Somaliland ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I would love to visit!

[@dundermifflin111]

Love your videos! I just discovered your channel.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much! Really appreciated. And please do let me know if there are any topics that would like to see me cover. I am always keen to hear suggestions.

[@kaysemohamed6326]

Thanks Mr. James

[@abdullahimohamed2395]

Thanks James as you talk

[@Ss-kl1hz]

Tank you James Ker Lindsay for telling the history of Somaliland

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. It was such an interesting situation to look into and try to explain. I had been meaning to do it for ages as I had always been really fascinated in the situation. I am really glad I finally did it. And I hope to do more on Somaliland in the future.

[@Ss-kl1hz]

@@JamesKerLindsay well done and good luck

[@Hoodoayaan2000]

Somaliland will be recognized one day inshalaahu Somalilanders will never lose hope till they reach United nations membership.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

It would be nice to see. Somaliland certainly deserves recognition and UN membership.

[@DevilAdvocate]

Who were the countries that recognized British Somaliland's independence in 1960? I can't find the full list anywhere (tho the wiki article mentions that it was a total of 35 countries and lists of 10 them).

[@salmaanqambi3523]

Thank you James

[@husseinsidiiqhamshari5819]

*SOMALILAND IS MY SWEET HOME❤❤❤*

[@DAANSHOOO]

other main point not mentioned in your videos is that in Somaliland a constitution was approved in a referendum held on May 31, 2001 when 97% of the voters voted in its favour and Somalilanders overwhelmingly endored independence. by the way thank you for your efforts.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Good point. It seems clear that the vast majority of people in Somaliland support independence.

[@user-rk9hh6pg7i]

97% of the people of the villages and cities that were bombed voted in favor of secession, while the eastern half of Somaliland did not participate in the vote, according to the admission of the people of Sool.

[@abdihakinneedle3588]

Thnks James i'm so happy for your topic about Somaliland big respect dear

[@book2316]

I have to correct you on one point here and that is Somaliland has never joined another country after its independence but rather it formed an illegal "new" country called "Somali Republic" as shown in the "Act of Union" which was never signed or ratified by both parliaments or executives in 1960. In another words the State of Somaliland did not join the State of Somalia and that's a historical fact. Somaliland can unilaterally withdraw from an illegal union because there was no vaild Treaty or contract, and lastly the illegal union ceased to exist in 1991 and Federal Somalia was recognised in 2012 with a new temporarily constitution. 6:33

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. This is a very interesting point that keeps coming up. What I would say is that it was clear that before Somaliland became independent, the intention was the join with Italian Somaliland to create a new state. As this was widely understood, the union between the two states - which, as you point out, was a union of two states - was immediately accepted by the international community as a voluntary association. The trouble is that even voluntary associations, once they have been accepted, are very hard to break unilaterally. This is the reason why Scotland can't simply break the union with the UK. As I emphasise is so many videos, the international community really does not like secession. This is the case, even if it is seemingly fully justified by a country reclaiming its previous independence. As I said in the video, I want to cover this in a future video as this is something many people often ask me about.

[@book2316]

@@JamesKerLindsay but the problem with that scenario is there is an absence of a vaild Treaty between the two parties because neither parliaments or executives signed and ratified the agreement, so even if I followed that logic of "voluntary association" which I never heard of in international law before, the question still remains who joined who "joined" who and how do you legally proof it without a vaild contract? By the way at least Scotland had a signed Treaty but Somaliland doesn't have one.

[@somalilandtayda3765]

No Somaliland was the first legitimate of all Somali speaking nations including Somalia so first it has that legitimacy second the union was fraud and that is why A. Somalia omits 26june 1960 form the history of what once called. Republic of Somalia B. Never discuss the first merge agreement of Somalia and Somaliland in front of united nations or any interested party

[@elmikamil9487]

Paper Book that made no sense . Somalia is just one ☝️ there nothing need to sign shame on you. 🙏

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@book2316 Thanks. I must admit that this is something that I am very keen to look into now. It raises an interesting question. I suspect that the response of the international community is that, even if it wasn't formally ratified, it was nevertheless accepted that it was part of Somalia for many decades. However, if these countries wanted, this legal point could be yet another good reason to class Somaliland as a special and unique case and as a basis for recognition. Ultimately, I think the argument will really only carry weight if countries want it to carry weight!

[@abdis70]

Thanks James for your effort on this over due Video. Somaliland has a strong case to be recognized and it's not a secessionist state. Somaliland people determined to withdraw the union of forming Somali Republic. Somaliland proved its quest for recognition with 5 successful democratic presidential elections. It has all attributes of a nation when Somalia can't do one man one vote for the last 30 years. I would like you to visit Somaliland and eye witness what they deserve is full RECOGNITION.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks for the comment. It is such an interesting case. You are right, there is a really strong argument for recognition. However, there is so much international reluctance to accept it as a sovereign state. As I hoped to show, the reasons behind this reluctance is based on fears about the wider effects elsewhere, rather than opposition to Somaliland as such. This makes it a rather unusual situation as compared with many other places around the world - as I tried to point out at the end. In any case, thanks again for the kind comment.

[@abdis70]

Thanks for your intellectual interaction of the Somaliland case which is free advice to everyone who concerns the issue. My Question to everyone is : If Bosnia, Herzegovina, Eritrea, East Timor and South Sudan were recognized why not Somaliland- the oasis of East Africa ! ?

[@GBal-bd4de]

Well done and many thanks James. You called for justice to British Somaliland and we support you and all others who advocate for justice of this very unfortunate situation of the people of Somaliland.

[@z012y]

Thanks mr James

[@gulledyare9619]

somaliland republic that declared independence from Britain in 1960, and was recognized by more than 34 countries at the United Nations

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Yes. It is interesting to think that it did receive so much recognition at the time, even though it formally only existed as a fully sovereign state for a few days.

[@abdulfatahjamar7314]

yes we was recongnised but we shot ourselves in the foot by joining Z00malia!!

[@oogdhugee_3072]

@@JamesKerLindsay Then "claimed independent for 5days" is a myth. Process of unification began 1July1960 and the unification act passed oct1961 as a retroactive law. Without the fraudulent retroactive law the 1961 constitution referendum would have become nul and void.

[@abdirisaqabdi4040]

share.icloud.com/photos/0SiOZuClhbtlw5ha6sWskAWpw James was wrong about Somaliland recognition by different countries including USA read this link then you will see if USA gave full recognition to Somaliland as a independent country or else. I am Somalilander and agonist separatist and I don’t believe what you talking about at all.

[@ektarovladamovic7649]

interesting video. possibly a video on puerto rico?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Great suggestion! I would love to do one of Puerto Rico. I got into a fascinating discussion about this recently on another channel. It really is an a strange position.

[@richdobbs6595]

This is another example of inherent contractions in concepts of statehood, borders, self determination, and territorial integrity.

[@ismaila824]

Thank you so much for making video about somaliland

[@hamsejamaismail878]

On behalf of the Somaliland citizens, we would like you to come and see the bigger picture, I personally appreciated how you did your research about our beloved country, remember you're invited , my best wishes mate✌✌✌, keep up the good work.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. 🙏🏻 Really appreciated! I would hope to be able to visit one day. Keep safe.

[@awliyojamac7061]

Mr James Thnks for Your documentary of #Somaliland.

[@sharmakeabees4745]

Thank you sir james

[@sangarahlaal9929]

The questions that have yet to be investigated are: 1. What physical territorial entities were intended for "Somali" unification in 1960? 2. The Berlin conference divided Somali territory into 6 fragments (Socotra, Djibouti, Somaliland, Ethiopian-somali-region, Kenyan-Somali-region and Somalia. 3. Britain entered into international agreement with Somaliland in 1884 to ensure it's territorial integrity was sacrosanct, however violated this in 1889 when Britain entered an opposing agreement with Abyssinia annexing 33% of Somaliland(Haud & reserve area) to Abyssinia. 4. Britain promised independence of territories it had auctioned of to neighboring states in 1954 and the unification of all former territories of the Somali people however that was another lie as each fragment of the territory was set on an individual statehood path by the process of decolonization. 5. Ofthe original territory of the Somali people Somaliland, Djibouti and somalia would achieve their independence while Ethiopia, kenya and Yemen continue to enjoy possession of territory forcibly gifted to them by non other than Britain. 6. Britain's involvement has been one of political bi-polarity in so far as the territorial independence and sovereignty. Britain has at one point or another promoted complete territorial sovereignty and complete territorial annexation. 7. Alas the Somali territorial unification in 1960 was principled and intended for the complete unification of the 6-fragments created by Britain... not as romanticists of history would have it; between two lonely fragments. 8. Once a state is independent and recognized as a "Juridical person" such legal persona cannot become extinguished. Somaliland-Republic that gained independence from Britain on 26June1960 did not commit suicide nor was it annexed, nor did it sell it's soul nor was it consumed by entity Somalia(trust territory). They intended Unity did not happen nor is there any evidence that such a unity ever occurred in 1960. 9. The Un has evidence of Somaliland-Republics membership on file, the UN does not have Somalia(trust territory) on file as ever having any membership claim for a seat with the UN. The UN simple transferred Somaliland's membership and seat to the intended "Somali Republic" Union. 10. If the UN made a mistake by transferring a "recognized state's" seat to an "intended UNION" this is a question for the UN to address. How was it possible for the UN to accept an application of a UNION"the 6 fragments of the somali territories" when 50% of that territory was under occupation of the neighboring countries??? 11. If the UN was unconscious of the true intent of the Somali-Republic which i truly doubt, then by acceptance of the Somali-Republic-Union as a member of the UN, the international community accept the political aspiration of the Somali people to reclaim all missing territories by hook or crook??? 12. If however there was no legitimate or internationally binding UNIFICATION between all the somali territories, WHAT OUGHT FORCE two of said territories to surrender their individuality and legal existences to remain a Frankenstein Siamese twins for 60years while the UN looks on. 13. If by Majority referendum the people of each state are permitted the right to surrender their independence and individuality, the majority in Somaliland in the 1961 referendum declined to approve the Unification and the constitution of the unified Somali-Republic(intended 5 state-union). 14. Legally and morally the Republic of Somaliland remains "De Jure" constituted, independent and the only problem is the UN's denial of the fact that the 5state Union application was fraudulently accepted although UNILATERALLY submitted from Somalia(former UN trust territory). Did and Does the UN lack the responsibility to demand clarification from Somalia(form UN trust territory) on it's claims to sovereignty beyond the borders of it's original 1July1960 territorial integrity??? then why is there no UN application on file for this said state's membership? UN cannot have it both ways. Either disintegrate Ethiopian, Kenyan and Yemen territorial integrity OR force Somalia to reapply for membership with it's 01July1960 sovereign territorial limits. In the process after 60years return the fraudulently claimed UN seat that Somalia occupies back to it's rightfully owner WHOSE NAME is on file at the UN. 90% of conflicts i foresee have their roots in the 1960 fraudulent claims by a non representative political elite who occupy Somalia's leadership.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for such a very interesting set of questions and points. I will leave most of these to a specialist on the region. I work on issues of secession and statehood and try to look at how general principles of international law and politics affect particular conflicts. One aspect of the story that I am now really interested in learning more about, and investigating, is the legality of the union and how the fact that it was formally unratified stands in internationally. Also, I think it is very interesting that French Somaliland, which would once have bene expected to unite with Italian and British Somaliland in fact because fully independent and adopted the name Djibouti.

[@mohamedabdillahi7664]

James Ker-Lindsay Thank you mr James. I appreciate your effort to know more about Somaliland. But according to your comment I understand that you need to look back the legality of the so called union between Somaliland and Soomaaliland. So let me brief you some about the process of the Union, then you find further details and you would now about the legal foundation of so called union. First and foremost the council leaders of Somaliland and Somalia briefly met in Mogadishu during 15-21 April in 1960. They agreed to form a Republic with a parliamentary democratic system of government. In the meeting they envisaged that both sides would sign a joint contractual agreement (an Act of Union) that would set out terms being a legally binding document for the two independent states in union. Somaliland enacted the Union of Somaliland and Somalia Law. The Law was immediately effective in Somaliland, but, as set out in the Union agreement, it was supposed to be signed by the representatives of Somalia as well. This never happened. Rather, on June 30, 1960, the legislative assembly of Somalia met and approved “in principle” an Act of Union significantly different from the Act of Union agreed upon and implemented by Somaliland. Summarily, the Union of Somaliland and Somalia Law and the Somalia Act of Union were both drafted in the form of bilateral agreements, but neither of them was signed by the representatives of the two territories. The legislative assembly of Somalia requested that its government and the government of Somaliland agree upon a definitive single text of the Act of Union and submit this single text to the legislative assembly for approval. Instead of comparing and negotiating the differing versions of the Act of the Union, on July 1, 1960, members of the Somaliland legislature and members of the Somali legislature met and drafted a Constitution for the Somali Republic. This Constitution was adopted on the basis of an acclamation and a provisional President was elected. This election of a provisional President was taken in direct contradiction to the Constitutional requirement that the Act of the Union be signed by both Somalia and Somaliland before the election of a Provisional President. Subsequently, the unconstitutionally-elected Provisional President issued a decree to formalize the Union. Similar to the previous steps taken to formalize the Union, this decree did not meet the legal stipulations required for conversion into law. It was never presented to the National Assembly as is required under Article 63(3) of the new Constitution, but was nonetheless regarded as a de facto act joining the two formally-independent States of Somalia and Somaliland. After much debate about the legitimacy of having two different versions of the Act of Union, the National Assembly approved a consolidated Act of Union on January of 1961. The Assembly, comprising 90 members of Somalia’s Legislative Assembly and 33 members of Somaliland’s Legislative Assembly, determined that this Act of Union should be applied retrospectively. This new Act of Union did not encompass many of the protections the Somaliland version of the Act provided for its citizens, and it went so far as to repeal all legal documents inconsistent with the 1960 Somalia Constitution, specifically “the provisions of the Union of Somaliland and Somalia (Law No.1 of 1960)” except for Article 11(4). Mohamed Ali-ruush Researcher and senior Legal professional based Hargeisa. Contact at [e-mail] or linkedin.com/in/mohamed-ali-ruush-9b3a8818a

[@Jackrobert28]

@@JamesKerLindsay Was Djibouti made not to join Somalia republic by force or coercion?

[@yahyaelmi8435]

Sangar ahlaal the UN is not hargeisa, where 1 clan spreads fake propaganda to others . The fact is if you guys wanted independence you should’ve done that in 1960 but today it’s not possible .

[@ashaadana9295]

@@yahyaelmi8435 We Somalilanders we are ready for fight to Faqash one more time and you will run again from your shoes like Barre regime done it.

[@crose7412]

Another great vid. Have you done one yet on why no country was willing to recognise the secession of the Confederate States of America even though it passed many of the same tests that Somaliland has?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks a lot. Good question. The US Civil War took place in a very different era of international relations. The rules regarding state creation were very different. In fact, it would be even tougher for the South to gain acceptance today than it was then.

[@hanaddaib5181]

Thanksgiving james

[@SomaliaThink]

Very interesting at the same time I have learned so much About this video, and I would like to thank you for putting all the effort you have done on this video about Somaliland and it's status of Independence, now having said that, I would like to ask you even though you mentioned some of it on your video, you said if a country volunteering gives up its independence, under international law it doesn't have the right to reclaim it my question is can Somaliland take their case to the ICJ International Court of Justice

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much for the extremely kind comment. I really appreciate it! The question about the ICJ is fascinating. I have actually been thinking about this a lot over the past day. It could conceivably be possible to take it to the ICJ, but I think it would need to be a request for an advisory opinion. This requires a UN General Assembly resolution requesting such an opinion. This will probably be difficult to acheive.

[@SomaliaThink]

Thank you very much for your reply

[@atokarev6352]

The thing is that british somaliland didn't join italian somaliland, The two countries joined eachother and created The country somalia

[@book2316]

You mean the "Somali Republic" not Somalia that was original title.

[@sangarahlaal9929]

Imagine the European Union was called GERMANY? would that not be discrimination enough for France and Britain to giveup their EU membership. The Somali-Republic-Union was intended for Djibouti, Somaliland-Repubic, Ethiopian-Somali-region, Kenyan-Somali-region, Socotra and Somalia-Italia. Somalia-Italia Mafia politicians hijacked the Unification and called the UNION = Somalia after their own name hence the proposed unification failed and Djibouti refused to join. Ethiopian, Yemeni and Kenyan territories are still under occupation. So who is a member of the failed Unity? Nobody!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Very true. It joined *with* Italian Somaliland.

[@book2316]

@@JamesKerLindsay no, they "formed" not "joined". Somaliland did not join a country but rather formed a new one.

[@atokarev6352]

@@book2316 yes, i dont have english keyboard

[@aa1595]

Thank you James & Ahmed for really working on this issue and speaking on behalf of the somaliland nation. I really believe that the most effective way to speed up the recognition of somaliland is to start an international campaign. We all are aware of the somaliland diaspora and how there are strong communities in many cities around the world. We really need to sell the idea of somaliland to the world. If the great leaders of this time turn a blind eye to our sovereignty, the somaliland story will be spoken about in every country, every city and every town.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Very good points. The role of diaspora communities can be extremely important in these situations.

[@aa1595]

I’d really like to hear your advise to the somaliland people on how we could take steps towards the goal. There’s many obstacles in the way however we can find the most effective and efficient way to get there. The country of Somaliland welcomes you and anybody else speaking out for them.

[@cabdilaahihassan]

Thankz james 🙏

[@JamesKerLindsay]

My pleasure! I really hope Somaliland manages to gain international recognition. It is clear it has a very strong case.

[@abdilahimhersi8853]

Comments well noted. It is food for thought. The globe map needs a repair.

[@denbolo3347]

This is awful. I don’t understand why somalilanf can’t get independence if South Sudan did just fine. It was quick to be recognized due to the conflict that happened previously, but the same should go for somaliland. The only valid argument I see is Somalia itself, but I disagree with it. Yes, Somalia will probably be worse off in the short term with somaliland independence, but with the state it’s in right now it shouldn’t matter. Nothing has changed in Somalia for decades. If Somalia were to become stable again, granting somaliland independence could cause instability, downgrading the situation from ok to bad. Why not just give somaliland independence now because there is now hope for Somalia soon

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. South Sudan often comes up in the discussions, as does Eritrea. With managed to become independent. The key thing in both cases was that they were eventually able to get the agreement of their "parent" states for their secession. (This is the standard term for the country territories break away from.) This is usually the case in international politics. Countries hate recognising unilateral secession, except in extreme cases, As I highlighted in a recent video, Bangladesh is the only country since 1945 to gain full independence and UN membership after a unilateral secession kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqGVnZ2kltSUp9U This is the problem that Somaliland faces. Somehow, it either needs to persuade the international community that it is a very specific case, as the African Union had acknowledged, or else manage to persuade Somalia to sign off on its independence.

[@Wars7498]

James Ker-Lindsay Somalia will never sign off on Somalilands independence. The international community is encouraging talks between the two sides which have failed previously. I see the two sides eventually talking and holding there positions stubbornly until another referendum to settle the matter. Or the situation will remain the same for decades and Somaliland being a country like Taiwan. Or Somalia eventually developing their military strong enough to invade Somaliland.

[@oogdhugee_3072]

@@Wars7498 Since the the two-state dialogue process began in London(2012), Somalia has violated all agreements because every agreement diminishes it's claim to Union-Sovereignty. 1. There is a case for violation of human rights due to unequal access to the said "Union-statehood" for 30years. 2. There is a case for orchestrated discrimination, malice and sabotage on the part of Somalia. 3. There is a case for incapacity and incoherence on the part of Somalia to govern or deliver basic security. 4. There is a case for insincerity of those who buy their term in office in Somalia. 5. There is a case of donor-fatigue as there is disingenuous desire for reconciliation among Somalia-state. Somaliland is a claimed political elixir not a proven cure to the political ailment of Somalia. - Non of the above have translated into real policy terms as a consequence of a "top down" dictation over the somali issue. - Somaliland's absence has sustained the 30years of a lower order of complexity in the political power dispute. - President, Prime-minister and parliamentary allocation in Somalia is operating on pre-1960 power sharing. - Re-unity brings back the political turmoil of 1960-1969 which culminated in assassination of the president and military rule. - How would a strong government honor any agreements signed in the 30years of unilateral dissolution of the union? - How will 30years of international aid and debt accrued by Somalia be repaid? - How would Somalia afford the $billions in restitution owed to Somaliland? Since the internationally endorsed resuscitation strategy is built on assumptions and false premises there is an inevitability of widening the resource bases anti-governance and anti-security agents(uniting the spoilers of two states). Somaliland and Somalia's bourgeoisie will be pitted against one other. The Wahabi indoctrinated will coalesce giving rise to a new ISLAMIC-COURTS on steroids. The two state dialogue process MUST transition from facilitation to arbitration. Self interest agents Like Turkey, Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti and Qadar i do hope will be excluded.

[@mukhtar3052]

@@Wars7498 we have a better army so they cant 😁😄

[@najaxahmed867]

prof james ker thank you this vedeo is knowledgable to many countries who are unaware of somaliland

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I know I am meant to be impartial, but I do think Somaliland has a special case for recognition.

[@aliosman8826]

Mr Ker-Lindsey, I do respect your point of view in this matter with regard of Somaliland’s attempt to reach its sovereignty but you have presented mainly two obstacles 1) the African Union or should I say the dictators club. 2) The USA and EU, in their quest to revive back to life to this already deceased State of Somalia. We Somalilanders don’t care about the actions and attitudes of other people, in fact we lost more than 50,000 lives and had liberated our Nation-State with sweat, blood, and tears. Somaliland is factual process and in fact exists today and will exist forever. What happened to the principle of Uti Possidetis Juris? If African dictators Club believes in it why didn’t they stick with it when the cases of South Sudan and Eritrea were presented to them back then. They can’t cherry pick that universal principle of customary international law which serves to preserve the boundaries that colonials have left behind. Why Somaliland would be an anomaly then? Where does the case of Eritrea fit into this scenario? Anyhow, we Somalilanders are here to stay as a Nation-State forever. We are masters of our own destiny, nevertheless I do respect your opinion on this issue and thanks for putting a great effort to inform us. Lastly, I believe that you have overlooked some little detail which might have otherwise give you a few more options to present this case differently. Nation-Sates are born everyday and Nations- States die very often, otherwise the future of world’s countries would have been predictable. Once again Thank you.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I know that it is incredibly frustrating, but we do see many cases where the international community applies principles very selectively. The point about Eritrea and South Sudan was that they were eventually able to get Ethiopia and Sudan to accept their independence. (I plan to so videos on both cases as they are interesting. Countries don't like to give up territory, as I explain in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2aQaYmqpMysaa8) This is what Somaliland needs to do with Somalia - even though, as I fully understand, people make the point that it is reclaiming its independence. (I understand this, but as I point out in the video, and I'll cover in another video, this past independence isn't actually accepted as a reason to reclaim independence unilaterally.) Alternatively, it needs to continue to press the case that it is indeed worthy of being viewed as a special exception - as the African Union suggested. Neither is easy, unfortunately. Thanks again for watching and the comment.

[@hassanabubekerosman9851]

Thanks for explaining my homeland

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you for watching the video and commenting. Really appreciated!

[@user-hd7vb4xy5b]

Somaland is a state that disengaged from Italian Somalia as Egypt and Syria dismantled the union between them and was the first part of Somalia liberated from colonialism in June 26, 1960 and recognized by many countries, but preferred unity with Italian Somalia, which took exploitation in July and after bitter fighting with the regime of Siad Barre Somaland dismantled its association with the south in 1991 and is still until now an independent, free and democratic state in which the peaceful transfer of power is safe from terrorist movements, piracy, Turkish foreign bases and others that It is teeming with the South and it is important for the nation

[@abdirahmanfarah7268]

Thanks James

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting. I am glad you found it interesting.

[@abdulahiali5051]

We as somalilanders will not be decieved again and no matter how long it takes to achieve our independence even if it takes 100 years we are better off with out somalia as we are always one step ahead of them

[@faisalabdullahi9686]

Well somali doesn’t need you bro you need somali. And you can’t do nothing without somali 😂

[@mukhtar3052]

@@faisalabdullahi9686 So why do you beg us to join u? We don't need you at all you can keep al shabab and terrorists but we are out 😁

[@puresomalilander6951]

Thnx lion 🦁🦁🦁🦁 #SOMALILAND Deserves to recognized thnx your declared History of #SONALILAND ❤❤❤❤❤❤ Thn James Ker_lindsay

[@marioandwes]

Fascinating topic, and very interesting video, thank you.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to let me know! I really appreciate it.

[@siciildmaxamud3261]

James, one more thing is that the Somaliland's independent file is deposited to the UN 13th of July 1960 by UK .

[@AnsaarCarbeed]

Million Thanks mr. James From Somaliland Burco...

[@zeynababdi964]

Thanks so match my brother.

[@aminahmed8573]

Thanks brother,this is a true on the ground and no one can hide a Sun rising up...

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I truly believe that Somaliland has one of the strongest cases for full recognition in the world.

[@mahamedfarah8448]

Tankis James