Relevant:
Why South Sudan and not Somaliland?
− In Sudan, the conflict was defined in cultural, religious, racial and ethnic terms. Therefore, partition was seen as logical by Western policymakers. Somalia is one of only a few African countries that is also a homogeneous nation, with just one language, on religion, and one culture. That’s why the international community is unwilling to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state.
Since the collapse of Somalia in 1991 there has not been a government with which Somaliland can negotiate. Today, there is government in Mogadishu, but it is not interested in even discussing independence for Somaliland.
− Apart from the unwillingness of the international community, the neighboring states of Ethiopia and Kenya are reluctant to countenance independence for Somaliland. IGAD, the regional organisation that played a significant role in the achievement of independence by South Sudan, has been unable to play a similar role in Somaliland, owing to the concerns of neighboring countries about their own ethnic Somali populations. They may fear that demands for independence will arise in their countries if Somaliland is recognized.