AU Rejects Somaliland Recognition

The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has firmly rejected any move to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, reiterating the African Union’s unwavering commitment to the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

In a statement issued amid growing diplomatic debates over Somaliland’s status, Youssouf said the Commission had taken note “with deep concern” of recent developments relating to the self-declared republic, stressing that the AU’s position on the matter remains clear, consistent and non-negotiable.

He reaffirmed that the African Union’s stance is anchored in the principles of its Constitutive Act, particularly the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence, as enshrined in the historic 1964 decision of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).

“The Chairperson of the Commission unequivocally reaffirms the longstanding and consistent position of the African Union, grounded in the principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union, in particular the respect for the intangibility of borders inherited at independence,” Youssouf said.

The AU Commission Chairperson stressed that Somaliland remains an integral part of Somalia and warned that any attempt to recognise it as a separate entity would undermine the foundational principles of the continental body.

“The Chairperson firmly rejects any initiative or action aimed at recognising Somaliland as an independent entity, recalling that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” he stated.

Youssouf further cautioned that actions capable of weakening Somalia’s unity could have serious consequences beyond the Horn of Africa, potentially destabilising other parts of the continent.

“Any attempt to undermine the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia runs counter to the fundamental principles of the African Union and risks setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for peace and stability across the continent,” he warned.

Reiterating the AU’s support for Somalia, the Chairperson pledged continued backing for the country’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its institutions.

“The African Union remains unwavering in its commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Somalia and fully supports the efforts of the Somali authorities to consolidate peace, strengthen State institutions, and advance inclusive governance,” Youssouf added.

The statement comes at a time of heightened international attention on Somaliland, reinforcing the African Union’s position that Africa’s stability depends on respect for established borders and collective commitment to sovereign unity.