Legal Analysts and Commentator

  Female journalists in Somaliland and Somalia grapple with multifaceted barriers within societal norms and media institutions, hindering their professional growth. They face gender biases, limited roles, and insufficient support, impeding their recognition and opportunities in journalism. These challenges highlight the urgent need for equitable support, resources, and recognition, emphasizing the necessity for inclusive efforts to empower female journalists and break down systemic barriers in the field.

  Clan rivalry in Somaliland has become a critical issue, undermining not only its democratic institutions but also the societal fabric that holds the country together. While democracy should offer a platform for merit-based leadership and accountability, clan politics have hijacked this process, reducing political engagement to a mere tribal contest. One of the most troubling aspects of clan politics is its influence over Somaliland’s educated youth and intellectuals. In theory, the youth—especially university students and lecturers—should be at the forefront of advocating for progressive policies, holding political leaders accountable, and guiding society toward development. Unfortunately, the reality is quite the opposite. Clan elders, who traditionally wield significant social and political power, continue to dominate the political landscape by rallying the youth under the banner of clan loyalty. Instead of raising critical thinking and promoting national interests, these eld...

Introduction: The collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991 left a vacuum in the country’s economic and political infrastructure, leading to a period of uncertainty. Despite this instability, Somaliland managed to rebuild key sectors, including telecommunications and banking. In the absence of a centralized government, the private sector stepped in to fill the void, with the first telecommunication companies emerging in the early and mid-1990s. These companies introduced a new era of connectivity, transforming Somaliland into a hub of technological growth and economic opportunity. By the mid-1990s, private telecommunication companies began offering basic services, catering to the increasing demand for reliable communication in the region. Over time, these companies grew exponentially, with the introduction of mobile banking services like Zaad and E-Dahab further revolutionizing daily life. The adoption of these platforms brought an unprecedented level of convenience to Somalila...

  This article is a testament to the complexities and challenges that arise when engaging private security companies in conflict zones, urging stakeholders to tread cautiously and prioritize the protection of human rights and stability above all else.

  Today, on this International Day of People with Disabilities, let us unite in demanding action from Somalia's authorities and stakeholders. It's time to move beyond rhetoric and take tangible steps towards creating a more equitable, inclusive society—one where the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of ability, are upheld and protected

  In the pursuit of justice, the treatment of individuals within the legal system must adhere to fundamental principles of human dignity and fairness. The international community has long recognized the fundamental human rights of individuals, even in situations of detention or imprisonment. The Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment is a cornerstone in safeguarding these rights universally. The Body of Principles, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1988, unequivocally states that there should be no restriction or derogation from the human rights of individuals under any form of detention or imprisonment. This includes but is not limited to, the right to humane treatment, access to legal counsel, protection against torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and the right to a fair trial. Somaliland, as a responsible member of the international community, voluntarily accepted the obligations...

 The East African Community (EAC) stands as a beacon of regional cooperation and economic integration, fostering collaboration among member states for shared growth and development. As Somalia navigates its path to stability and progress, the question arises: Can Somalia obtain mutual benefits by joining or deepening its engagement with the EAC? Somalia, a nation with a complex history of conflict and instability, has been on a trajectory towards stability and reconstruction in recent years. Its potential inclusion within the EAC carries both promises and challenges, presenting a dynamic landscape of opportunities and considerations. Joining the EAC could potentially unlock various economic opportunities for Somalia. Access to a larger market comprising Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi would provide a platform for Somali goods and services to reach a wider consumer base. Increased trade facilitation and reduction in tariff barriers could spur economic growth and enh...

  The complexity of Somaliland's struggle goes far beyond the surface conflict in Las'Anod, delving into a web of global interests, regional power plays, and ideological clashes. At its core, this conflict embodies more than a Clan’s demand for secession—it's a stage for geopolitical maneuvering.  

  Corruption in Somaliland has resulted in severe consequences for the nation. The lack of essential services such as health, education, water, and sanitation is a direct result of this pervasive corruption. The destruction of newly built bridges and the DP World project serve as glaring examples of mass corruption and looting by those in power. The President's lack of foresight, extension of presidential and parliamentary terms, and the absence of an independent judiciary further contribute to the lack of accountability of the power holders. Corruption within Somaliland has wrought devastating consequences, most acutely felt in critical sectors like health, education, and infrastructure. The ramifications of this systemic issue are profound, casting a dark shadow over the lives of the populace and stalling progress in the nation. The misappropriation of funds meant for public services has left citizens without adequate healthcare, education, and essential amenities. Hospitals st...

  The position of legal plurality is characterized by overlapping and sometimes conflicting nonhierarchical coexistence of statutory law, customary law ( Xeer ), and sharia. All three systems of law are available in Somali territories, especially in the major towns. the numerous, overlapping, and even contradicting sources of law, determining primacy and jurisdiction has become extremely difficult and contentious. This, together with a widespread public misunderstanding and distrust of formal judiciary, and efforts by some Islamic court leaders to impose fundamentalist beliefs through Shari'a, creates a dangerous combination. Sharia and customary law are applied in Somaliland to resolve personal and family issues. The 1975 Family Law is not commonly used, despite the fact that Somaliland inherited laws passed by Somalia prior to 1991, such as the Somali Penal and Civil Codes, which are still in effect in its courts. In the 1970s, Somalia experienced a progressive shi...

  In this article, we will explore the concerns surrounding Somaliland's National Intelligence Agency. Despite being a non-law enforcement agency, it operates detention centers, which is illegal and poses a threat to human rights and national security. Additionally, we will discuss how the agency's focus on limiting freedom of speech hampers its ability to fulfill its responsibilities. The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) is a critical entity responsible for safeguarding Somaliland's national security. It plays a crucial role in gathering intelligence, counterintelligence, and protecting the country's interests both domestically and internationally. The agency was established with the purpose of safeguarding national security and collecting intelligence information, operating independently from the police. Its primary focus is to ensure the safety and welfare of the citizens of Somaliland. Its primary responsibility is to collect and analyze intelligence to support ...

  This article explores the detrimental impact of the clan system on democracy in Somaliland, and highlights the challenges faced in achieving fair and inclusive elections and the consequences of the clan system on society and governance. The article aims to raise awareness and promote efforts to address these challenges. Somaliland, a self-proclaimed entity in the Horn of Africa, encounters substantial hurdles in upholding a robust democracy and safeguarding human rights. The enduring influence wielded by the Clan system and traditional elders has emerged as a significant impediment to both progress and accountability. Despite conducting regular elections and presenting a functional democratic framework in contrast to its war-ravaged neighbor, the persisting presence of the Clan system and traditional elders remains a formidable obstacle to the country's democratic institutions and human rights track record. Following a devastating civil war, Somaliland declared independence f...