Day: March 18, 2025

White Paper: A Pathway to Negotiations Between Puntland State and the Federal Government of Somalia

Executive Summary

The relationship between Puntland State and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has been marked by tension and mistrust, largely due to disagreements over the federal constitution, resource allocation, and political representation. Puntland, as the oldest federal member state established after the Somali Civil War, has consistently advocated for a review of the provisional federal constitution to address its concerns and ensure a fair and inclusive political framework. This white paper outlines the necessary steps for Puntland to engage in meaningful negotiations with the FGS, focusing on key demands such as constitutional reform, recognition of Puntland’s historical and political significance, and its role in critical issues like Somaliland negotiations and SSC-Khaatumo affairs. As a confidence-building measure, the FGS must abandon anti-Puntland policies, including the freezing of projects and budget support, to create an environment conducive to dialogue and collaboration.

Introduction

Puntland State, established in 1998, has played a pivotal role in Somalia’s post-civil war recovery. As a semi-autonomous region, Puntland has contributed to state-building, security, and economic development, serving as a model for other federal member states. However, the relationship between Puntland and the FGS has been strained due to unresolved constitutional issues, perceived marginalization, and unilateral decisions by the FGS that undermine Puntland’s autonomy.

This white paper proposes a roadmap for negotiations between Puntland and the FGS, emphasizing the need for confidence-building measures, constitutional reform, and recognition of Puntland’s role in Somalia’s political future.

Key Demands of Puntland State

1. Review of the Federal Constitution

Puntland has consistently called for a comprehensive review of Somalia’s provisional federal constitution to address its concerns and ensure a fair distribution of power and resources. The current constitution does not adequately reflect the aspirations of Puntland and other federal member states. Puntland advocates for either an asymmetrical federal system or a confederal system, which would grant greater autonomy to member states while maintaining a unified Somalia.

  • Asymmetrical Federalism: This model would allow Puntland and other states to exercise varying degrees of autonomy based on their unique historical, political, and economic contexts.
  • Confederal System: This model would establish a looser union between Somalia’s member states, granting them significant autonomy while cooperating on issues of common interest.

2. Recognition of Puntland’s Historical and Political Significance

Puntland, as the oldest federal member state, has been a cornerstone of Somalia’s post-civil war recovery. Its contributions to peacebuilding, security, and governance must be formally acknowledged by the FGS. This recognition should include:

  • A formal acknowledgment of Puntland’s role in shaping Somalia’s federal system.
  • Inclusion of Puntland’s leadership in national decision-making processes.

3. Puntland’s Role in Somaliland Negotiations

Puntland has a direct stake in any future negotiations between the FGS and Somaliland. The SSC-Khaatumo region, which is claimed by both Puntland and Somaliland, is a critical issue that must be addressed through inclusive dialogue. Puntland demands:

  • A seat at the table during negotiations with Somaliland.
  • Recognition of Puntland’s interests in the SSC-Khaatumo region.

4. Puntland as a Stakeholder in SSC-Khaatumo Affairs

The SSC-Khaatumo region is a contentious issue that requires a collaborative approach. Puntland insists on being recognized as a key stakeholder in resolving disputes related to the region. This includes:

  • Ensuring that the voices of SSC-Khaatumo communities are heard and respected.
  • Collaborative efforts to address security, governance, and resource-sharing in the region.

Confidence-Building Measures

To create an environment conducive to negotiations, the FGS must take immediate steps to rebuild trust with Puntland. These measures include:

1. Abandoning Anti-Puntland Policies

The FGS must cease all actions that undermine Puntland’s autonomy and development. This includes:

  • Halting efforts to marginalize Puntland in national decision-making.
  • Ending interference in Puntland’s internal affairs.

2. Unfreezing Projects and Budget Support

The freezing of projects and budget support for Puntland by the donor community, often at the behest of the FGS, has hindered the region’s development. The FGS must:

  • Advocate for the resumption of donor-funded projects in Puntland.
  • Ensure equitable distribution of resources and development assistance to all federal member states.

3. Inclusive Dialogue

The FGS must commit to an inclusive and transparent dialogue process that addresses Puntland’s concerns. This includes:

  • Establishing a joint technical committee to review the federal constitution.
  • Ensuring that Puntland’s representatives are included in all national consultations.

Conclusion

The path to a stable and unified Somalia requires addressing the legitimate concerns of Puntland State. By abandoning anti-Puntland policies, unfreezing development projects, and committing to constitutional reform, the FGS can build the trust necessary for meaningful negotiations. Puntland’s demands for greater autonomy, recognition of its historical significance, and a role in critical national issues are not only reasonable but essential for Somalia’s long-term stability.

This white paper serves as a call to action for the FGS to prioritize dialogue and collaboration with Puntland, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable Somalia.