The Republic of Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, reasserting the borders of the former British Protectorate of Somaliland.

Historically the region developed strong trading connections across the Gulf of Aden and maintained treaty relationships with Britain beginning in the nineteenth century. During the period of union with Somalia from 1960, Somalilanders often felt disadvantaged by centralised governance and political instability.  After the collapse of the Somali state in 1991, local elders, clan leaders, and civil society groups convened a series of peace conferences that established stable institutions, demobilised militias, and formed a government with broad community support. Somaliland introduced its own currency, constitution, and multiparty elections. This internal stability contrasted sharply with ongoing turmoil in southern Somalia.

Despite functioning as a de facto state for decades, Somaliland lacks international recognition, largely due to concerns about African Union precedent and the territorial integrity of Somalia. Nevertheless, its institutions have achieved notable durability.  Somalilanders continue to express strong national identity rooted in shared history, cultural coherence, and the collective memory of past conflict.