Somaliland: Growing Democracy Yet No Aid
Somaliland Representative in Brussels, Mohamoud Daar, calls upon the European Union to reevaluate its policy on Somaliland, referencing the growing development in terms of democracy in the region.
Below is a statement published by Mr. Mouhamoud Abdi Daar:
After restoring its freedom and independence since the beginning of 1991 the people of
Since that time, the country has succeeded to establish an orderly transition to peace and stability and continuity of democratically-elected governments and good governance institutions. General elections of its parliament, local government and direct presidential elections, always observed by members of the international community, are now a permanent feature of the country’s democracy.
As is acknowledged, Somaliland has a defined territory within its old colonially demarcated boundaries, a permanent population of more than 3.5 million people and an independent government which has the capacity to enter into relations with other states of the African Union, the European Union,
The people of
In spite of these positive developments, there are other challenges and difficulties in the country faces. Owing to its present status, it cannot access much needed development funds to alleviate poverty and underdevelopment. The government is currently launching economic and social development programs in education, health, water supply, infrastructure, capacity-building as well as in the areas of livestock, environment, agriculture and rural developments. It strongly calls for more aid and generous assistance from the donor community more than ever before.
In conclusion, I should express our appreciation and emphasize that
Mr. Mohamoud Abdi Daar, Somaliland Representative in