Publication

This brief reviews Somalia's national process of federalization. It shows that the advancement of Somalia’s federal agenda, essential for the establishment of peace and stability in the country, has proved to be a contentious process. Indeed, the author argues that fragmentation resulting from growing clan-based claims and unclear guidelines for the creation of federal member states risks perpetuating or even exacerbating Somalia’s fragility. Finally, he suggests that Somalia’s international partners should consider strengthening the power of the central administration over the federal states and support a just process for the establishment of a federal system.