UK MP Launches Somaliland Recognition Report

[Deeq A.]

UK MP Launches Somaliland Recognition Report

A British Member of Parliament, Sir Gavin Williamson, has announced the release of a new report titled Roadmap to Recognition, which urges the United Kingdom to formally recognize Somaliland as an independent state. The report was launched under the auspices of the UK Parliament’s All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Somaliland, which Williamson chairs.

Speaking during the launch event, Sir Gavin emphasized that Somaliland has met the criteria of statehood under international law and that recognition by the UK would support stability, democracy, and development in the Horn of Africa.

“The Roadmap to Recognition lays out a clear, evidence-based path for the UK Government to lead the way in recognizing Somaliland’s right to self-determination,” said Williamson.

“Somaliland has shown remarkable resilience and democratic progress in a challenging region, and now it is time for the international community—starting with Britain—to acknowledge that reality,” he added.

The report outlines legal, political, and strategic arguments for recognition, including Somaliland’s sustained governance structures, peaceful elections, and cooperation with international partners. It also includes recommendations for bilateral engagement and suggests a phased approach toward full recognition.

The move is likely to stir debate within UK foreign policy circles, as the British government has historically maintained support for Somalia’s territorial integrity. However, the APPG’s initiative reflects growing parliamentary interest in reevaluating that stance, especially given Somaliland’s relative stability compared to the rest of Somalia.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not been recognized by any sovereign state. The region has since developed its own political institutions, currency, and security apparatus.

So far, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has not issued an official response to the report. However, analysts expect the Roadmap to Recognition to influence future parliamentary debates and international diplomacy regarding Somaliland’s status

Qaran News