Federalism and National Unity: A Case Study of the Federal Republic of Somalia (1991-2013)

This study examines national stability and federalism in Somalia from the perspectives of history and identity politics. I argue that national stability have at times, when faced with a common enemy, generated temporary cooperation among Somalis. However, they have not been able to integrate traditional forms of identity such as clan affiliation and Islam. They have been at their weakest in the face of clan feuds and regional power struggles. Furthermore, disagreement over national narratives, territory and governance hinder strong national stability that may mobilize Somalia is across a single system of government and a shared vision for the future. In Somalia the absence of a viable government free from clans, warlords and Islamic insurgency remains significant. Although national stability through federalism is a potentially useful; peace building tool, it may not be strong enough to serve as an immediate solution to the conflict in Somalia. The study will also explore a theoretical frame work based on understanding the not ion of federalism, and its relevance to a conflict-ridden state. Local stakeholders and peace builders have approached the conflict in Somalia with the view that it can only be solved through the adoption of federalism. Rather than promoting a national identity through a centralized system, the political elite and the local population support the formation of viable Federal Member States that incorporate various identities into a com plementary and a stable system (relationships and governance. Only within the framework of such functional fully fledged Federal Member States, can federal ism act as a cohesive and positive force in Somali to enhance national stability.