SECURITY CHALLENGES IN SOMALIA: CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES

Abstract

Security is a vital component for each sovereign country, like in the case of the Federal Republic of Somalia. As one of the powers in Africa, or as known as the Horn of Africa, Somalia has its own difficulties and problems within the scope of international relations and internal security. As a matter of fact these problems are preventing Somalia‟s national development. Global society is in a constant transformation and therefore, an interdependent system has been launched. Thereby, countries became more dependent and each action taken may affect another country which is nearby or hundreds of kilometers away. Thus, the outcome of this system is that it is not possible to stay isolated, so that strengthening intergovernmental relations by creating strong bonds and policies with other countries are crucial necessities in order to survive within this system. Since Somalia situates in a continent which possesses vast possibilities and rich sources, fortified international policies will play vital roles as a significant component for security as well as for the national growth. This study aims to shed a light on the various challenges that Somalia has been confronted with and is in challenge with by the perspective of security concept and its evolution throughout the years. After stressing these concepts, historical background of the country and challenges it preserves within itself which is preventing the development will be argued. Somalia‟s political challenges are going to be broadly discussed under this research. Finally, this thesis supports the idea of reconciliation and reunification to improve and strengthen national development in Somalia.