Center For Democracy and Governance

Author: Country Director

Reviving the Role of CSOs in Somaliland

Home Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have historically been central to Somaliland’s development, bridging gaps in governance, advocating for human rights, and delivering essential social services. These organizations have played a key role in peacebuilding, capacity building, and fostering democratic governance, often stepping in where government resources are limited. In recent years, however, many CSOs have… Continue reading Reviving the Role of CSOs in Somaliland

Conflict Analysis of Somaliland House of Representatives: Challenges and Recommendations

Home In June 2023, the Center for Democracy and Governance (CDG) conducted a comprehensive conflict analysis of Somaliland’s House of Representatives (HoR), focusing on internal conflicts and governance challenges affecting its effectiveness. Key findings include: Clan Influence and Political Divisions: Clan affiliations heavily influence parliamentary operations, creating factions and reducing collaboration. This has led to… Continue reading Conflict Analysis of Somaliland House of Representatives: Challenges and Recommendations

Feasibility Study on Zakat and Social Integration in Somaliland: Prospects and Challenges

Home This October 2023 report by CDG evaluates the potential for integrating Zakat—a key pillar of Islam—into Somaliland’s social protection system. Conducted with UNICEF support, the study examines Zakat’s role in poverty alleviation and economic empowerment. Key findings include: Zakat Sources: Individuals, businesses, and cooperatives contribute significantly to Zakat. However, a lack of structured systems… Continue reading Feasibility Study on Zakat and Social Integration in Somaliland: Prospects and Challenges

Citizens’ Expectations Towards the House of Representatives Elected in 2021: October 2023 Dialogue by SDWG

Home The “Citizens’ Expectations Towards the House of Representatives Elected in 2021” report, initiated by the Somaliland Dialogue Working Group (SDWG), captures insights from an October 2023 participatory meeting aimed at enhancing the relationship between citizens and their elected MPs. The event provided a platform for Somaliland’s public to express their expectations, engage in dialogue… Continue reading Citizens’ Expectations Towards the House of Representatives Elected in 2021: October 2023 Dialogue by SDWG

Somaliland Elections: Challenges in Achieving Inclusive Representation

Home Somaliland’s shift from a clan-based political structure to multiparty democracy aimed to foster inclusivity and broaden political representation. However, this transition introduced hurdles, particularly in ensuring fair representation across clans and increasing women’s participation in governance. While the multiparty system granted women the right to vote and run for office, their representation remains minimal,… Continue reading Somaliland Elections: Challenges in Achieving Inclusive Representation

Public Engagement Dialogue Report: Navigating Clannism and Democracy in Somaliland’s Political Landscape

Home On August 23, 2024, the Somaliland Center for Democracy and Governance (CDG) and GOLE-KEEN Forum hosted a pivotal dialogue titled “Challenges Hindering Political Parties in Somaliland: Democracy or Clannism” in Hargeisa, Somaliland. The forum brought together panelists and over 150 participants, including political representatives, civil society members, academics, and government officials, to discuss the… Continue reading Public Engagement Dialogue Report: Navigating Clannism and Democracy in Somaliland’s Political Landscape

Assessing Mutual Benefits in the Ethio-Somaliland Red Sea Agreement: The Diplomatic Dance

Home This report by CDG explores the strategic Ethio-Somaliland Red Sea Agreement signed on January 1, 2024, focusing on its political, economic, and security benefits. The agreement, formed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, underscores mutual advantages in areas like international recognition, economic integration, and regional stability. Somaliland Recognition: The agreement serves as a significant step toward… Continue reading Assessing Mutual Benefits in the Ethio-Somaliland Red Sea Agreement: The Diplomatic Dance

CDG Annual Report 2022: A Year of Political Milestones and Democratic Challenges in Somaliland

Home In 2022, the Center for Democracy and Governance (CDG) played a vital role in advancing democratic governance in Somaliland, addressing political challenges, and fostering a more inclusive political landscape. Key highlights include: Election Delays: CDG monitored the impact of postponed presidential and political association elections, which sparked civic unrest and hindered democratic stability. The… Continue reading CDG Annual Report 2022: A Year of Political Milestones and Democratic Challenges in Somaliland

CDG Annual Report 2023: A Year of Progress and Innovation in Democracy and Governance

Home In 2023, the Centre for Democracy and Governance (CDG), based in Somaliland, made notable strides in fostering democracy, governance, and societal inclusivity. The organization engaged in key areas: Governance and Legislation: CDG championed the Amendment of Election Law (Lr. 14) and developed a General Guideline for Committees to enhance transparency and efficiency. Conflict Resolution:… Continue reading CDG Annual Report 2023: A Year of Progress and Innovation in Democracy and Governance

Pre-Election Risk Assessment for Somaliland’s 2024 Presidential Elections

Home The upcoming presidential and party elections in Somaliland, set for November 13, 2024, face significant risks and challenges. The Center for Democracy and Governance (CDG) conducted a thorough assessment with support from the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, focusing on political stability, security, media freedom, and inclusivity in the electoral process. The report highlights: Political Landscape: While Somaliland… Continue reading Pre-Election Risk Assessment for Somaliland’s 2024 Presidential Elections