Somaliland scores 47/100 in latest freedom house report amid rising democratic strains

Somaliland has received a score of 47 out of 100 in the latest Freedom in the World report by Freedom House, maintaining its classification as “Partly Free.” While the territory continues to stand out within the Horn of Africa for its relative political openness, the new assessment points to mounting pressure on democratic institutions, and civil liberties. The rating places Somaliland well ahead of Somalia in terms of political freedoms, but still short of achieving full democratic status, reflecting a system that remains functional yet increasingly strained by emerging challenges.

According to the report, Somaliland continues to uphold several key democratic features, including multiparty competition and periodic elections, achievements that have long distinguished it in a region often marked by instability. However, these strengths are being gradually overshadowed by growing restrictions on political rights and civil liberties. Authorities have come under criticism for limiting freedom of expression, exerting pressure on opposition figures, and constraining independent media. As a result, the political environment, while still outwardly open, is narrowing in practice.

A central issue has been the repeated delay of elections. In recent years, Somaliland’s electoral calendar has been disrupted multiple times, with both presidential and parliamentary votes postponed beyond their constitutional timelines. These delays have often been resolved through political negotiations rather than timely public elections. Although elections have eventually been held and are generally regarded as credible, the pattern of postponement has weakened institutional credibility and created uncertainty regarding democratic continuity.

The report also highlights a growing crackdown on the media. Since the current administration led by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi came to power, there has been an increase in the detention and harassment of journalists. Local press advocates report that dozens of journalists have been arrested in recent months. Media workers are facing mounting pressure from authorities, marking a notable shift for Somaliland, which has historically been viewed as more tolerant of press freedom compared to its neighbors. This trend points to a tightening information environment, where journalists operate under heightened risk and scrutiny.

Beyond institutional concerns, there are growing worries about the continued influence of clan dynamics on Somaliland’s political system. Access to power and representation remains uneven, with minority clans facing political marginalization while dominant groups maintain significant control. Women, too, continue to encounter substantial barriers to meaningful political participation, limiting inclusivity within the democratic process.

Security tensions in eastern regions, along with unrest in the Awdal region, which has recently experienced one of the deadliest protests in its history, have added further strain. There have been documented instances of police brutality that have exacerbated the recent protests. These developments once again demonstrate how security concerns can intersect with and complicate broader democratic processes.

Overall, the Freedom House score of 47 reflects a political system that is holding together but facing increasing pressure. Somaliland remains more stable and politically open than many of its regional counterparts and retains the capacity to conduct competitive elections. However, the combined effects of delayed electoral timelines, restrictions on media freedom, and unequal political participation are prompting closer scrutiny of its democratic trajectory.