Somalia

Abstract

Conflict has gripped Somalia for decades with little to no end in sight. While many have tried to resolve the conflict, a sustainable and successful strategy remains elusive. As a failed state with a bitter past and tenuous future, there is both a tactical and moral imperative to bring stability to Somalia. Furthermore, with a moderate government, international attention, and an as yet imperfect insurgency, there may never be a better opportunity to act than now. Based on analysis of the Somali conflict history and context, as well as research on conflict resolution and management methods, this study outlines a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to achieve long-term peace in Somalia. The research indicates taking the conflict of Somalia and the semi-autonomous region of Somaliland on a separate—though mutually informing—basis. For Somaliland, partition is recommended to remove the region from the danger of continued attachment to Somalia proper as well as to encourage nascent state, civil and democratic institutions in Somaliland. In Somalia proper, however, a two-pronged strategy is best. This policy consists of peace- and state-building via international intervention, followed by negotiations between the government, insurgents, and any other important players such as remaining warlords and/or clan leaders. Through a careful and considered application of these prescriptions, the country has a chance to usher in an era of stability, security, and opportunity that the people of Somalia have seldom seen.