A new bill introduced by Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10) seeks to recognize Somaliland, a self-governing region in the Horn of Africa, as a sovereign nation.

The Republic of Somaliland Independence Act aims to strengthen U.S. ties with a stable, democratic partner in a strategically vital region, a potential shift in American foreign policy.

Somaliland, located along the Gulf of Aden near the critical Bab el-Mandeb Strait, has operated independently from Somalia since 1991.

Despite lacking formal international recognition, it boasts a functioning government, military, and a track record of democratic elections.

The bill highlights Somaliland’s stability and its efforts to combat piracy and extremism, positioning it as a key ally against growing Chinese and Iranian influence in Africa.

“Somaliland has shown for over 30 years that it’s a reliable partner with shared values,” Perry said.

“Recognizing its sovereignty strengthens U.S. interests in a region where adversaries are gaining ground.”

The legislation has garnered bipartisan support, with co-sponsors including Representatives Andy Ogles (TN-05), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), and Tom Tiffany (WI-07).

Ogles emphasized Somaliland’s resistance to Chinese influence and its ties with Taiwan, while Tiffany called for U.S. policy to reflect Somaliland’s de facto independence.

The self-declared independent state of Somaliland welcomed the bill, calling it a “historic affirmation” of its three-decade record of peace and governance.

“We are committed to deepening ties with the United States,” the government stated.

If passed, the bill could reshape U.S. engagement in East Africa, opening doors for enhanced security, trade, and diplomatic cooperation.

It also raises broader questions about recognizing self-governing states in a changing global landscape.

In the late 19th century, European powers carved up the Somali region.

Britain established the British Somaliland Protectorate in 1884, centered in present-day Somaliland, to secure trade routes and counter French and Italian Somaliland’s influence.

During World War II, British Somaliland was briefly occupied by Italy in 1940 but was liberated in 1941. After the war, Britain resumed control until 1960, when the protectorate was prepared for independence.

On June 26, 1960, British Somaliland gained independence as the State of Somaliland, recognized by several countries for a brief five-day period.

Days after independence, on July 1, 1960, Somaliland voluntarily united with the former Italian Somaliland, which had also gained independence, to form the Somali Republic.

The goal was to create a "Greater Somalia" uniting all Somali-speaking territories.

The autonomous region established a hybrid system blending democratic institutions with traditional clan-based governance.

The 2001 constitution created a bicameral parliament, an elected president, and an independent judiciary.

It maintains its own military and police forces, effectively combating piracy and extremism, including the insurgent group Al-Shabaab.