ABSTRACT
Slightly smaller than Texas, Somalia is bordered by Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya. The terrain consists of mostly flat to undulating plateau, rising to hills in the north; the lowest point is the Indian Ocean, and the highest point is Shimbiris. “In 1969, a coup headed by Mohamed Siad Barre ushered in an authoritarian socialist rule characterized by the persecution, jailing, and torture of political opponents and dissidents. After the regime’s collapse early in 1991, Somalia descended into turmoil, factional fighting, and anarchy. In May 1991, northern clans declared an independent Republic of Somaliland that now includes the administrative regions of Awdal, Woqooyi Galbeed, Togdheer, Sanaag, and Sool. Although not recognized by any government, this entity has maintained a stable existence and continues efforts to establish a constitutional democracy, including holding municipal, parliamentary, and presidential elections.
