ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief historical background and a description of major events in Somalia. It also provides basic political, economic, and social data arranged in the following categories: polity, economy, population, purchasing power parities, life expectancy, ethnic groups, capital, political rights, civil liberties, and status. The chapter discusses the progress and decline of political rights and civil liberties in Somalia. The elections in 2000 marked the first time Somalis have had an opportunity to choose their government on a somewhat national basis since 1969. Somaliland has sought international recognition as the Republic of Somaliland since 1991. A referendum on independence and a new constitution was approved in May 2001, opening the way for a multiparty system. Elections are scheduled for 2002. Somalia is an Islamic state, and religious freedom is not guaranteed. The Sunni majority often view non-Sunni Muslims with suspicion. Members of the small Christian community face societal harassment if they proclaim their religion.
