De Facto Recognition vs. De Jure Recognition: The Case of Somaliland

May 22, 2022

Somaliland Canadian Congress

On May 18, 2022, Somaliland and Somalilanders around the world celebrated with a grandiose show their annual Independence Day. This year was different and somewhat exhilarating since the young republic was celebrating 31 years of being a free nation. In other terms, from this very moment, Somaliland has been existing as a De Facto country for a period longer than the 30 years it has suffered under the genocidal regime of Somalia.

The De Facto denomination means that the Republic of Somaliland has all the factual characteristics of a functioning country such as distinct flag, defined territory, central bank, government institutions, electoral system, a bicameral parliamentary representation, law and order system, etc. But what is missing is the extra step that will provide a full international recognition. In legal terms, that is the transition from a “de facto status” to “de jure status”.

What is the difference between the two denominations? In layman’s terms what does “de jure” mean? Let’s explore some key differences between the two legal classifications in the table below:

Despite the lack of international recognition, Somaliland has demonstrated its ability of adopting the highest standards of governance and democratic values in its 31 years of independence. Contrary to its southern neighbour Somalia, Somaliland has offered its citizens the pinnacle of democracy: fair and transparent elections via a one person – one vote basis.

It even became the first African country to ever use biometric identification in its voter registration system! But it is not all. It went further by doubling down on its resolve to demonstrate the highest level of democratic maturity and held mayoral and local district council elections alongside parliamentary elections in 2021.

In light of these extraordinary achievements, despite the animosity coming from Somalia, Somaliland has demonstrated more than once that it deserves a full recognition. In a world where democratic values are under constant attack, the case of Somaliland’s recognition pleads for more than a lip service, it calls for concrete actions. The key question remains: what is holding the democratic nations of this world to fully recognize Somaliland? There is certainly no legal contention since 35 country members of the United Nations have provided to Somaliland full recognition in 1960…

It is time for governments like Canada, USA and the United Kingdom to rightfully recognize Somaliland for what it is: a country.