Abstract

There are significant grounds for speculation that the new Trump administration could recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state to further American military and economic interests in the region. Historically, American recognition of a contested state has been the catalyst for the separatist state’s successful self-determination and acceptance into the international community. For instance, American recognition of Kosovo in 2008 contributed to broader European recognition, leading to the self-determination of Kosovo. This paper explores hypothetical regional and global implications of recognition of Somaliland: while strategically advantageous in some regards for the United States and Somaliland, it could run the risk of destabilizing the Horn of Africa, challenging global norms, and straining a devolving relationship between the United States and China.