441-00706 (Foreign affairs)

The Government of Canada recognizes Somaliland as a semi-autonomous and important region within the Federal Republic of Somalia. Canada’s position is consistent with that of the international community, including the African Union, and maintains that the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland must reach an agreement on their future relationship.

The Government of Canada would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the considerable progress made in the Somaliland region, to which residents and diaspora members have made a significant contribution.  More specifically, Canada would like to acknowledge the progress made with respect to peacebuilding and democratic development, as exemplified by the successful holding of parliamentary and local elections in May 2021. Canada was concerned by reports of clashes between protestors and security forces in August 2022, and hopes that the next Presidential elections, which have been postponed until next year, will be able to move forward.

Overall, in 2020-21, across all delivery channels, Canada provided $78.3 million to Somalia in international assistance. Canada’s development assistance is balanced across all Federal Member States in Somalia, including Somaliland. Humanitarian assistance is based on need.

Canada is deeply concerned by the humanitarian impact of the drought that is currently affecting Somalia and much of the Horn of Africa region. For 2022, Canada has allocated $40.25 million to our humanitarian partners who are working to save lives throughout Somalia. This support to UN agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and NGOs is helping to improve access to food, safe water and sanitation, treatment for acute malnutrition and other critical healthcare, emergency shelter, and protection services for those in need.

The Government of Canada engages regularly with the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia and a broad range of actors, including non-governmental organizations and business leaders. All of Canada’s missions abroad are charged with advancing inclusive approaches that respect social differences as a key element of fostering and sustaining peace. The promotion and protection of human rights and gender equality is an integral part of Canadian foreign policy and a priority in bilateral engagements with Somalia.

Looking forward, Canada will continue to work with members of the international community to help strengthen the capacity of the Federal Government of Somalia and the regions. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced Embassy officials’ ability to travel; this travel, including to Hargeisa, is being reinstated and serves to connect with a broad range of actors to advance shared priorities.