African Union Rejects Recognition of Somaliland, Reaffirms Commitment to Somalia’s Unity, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity

The African Union has firmly rejected any move to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, reiterating its long-standing support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia. In a statement issued on December 27, 2025, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, warned that recognising Somaliland would violate the AU Constitutive Act and the principle of respecting borders inherited at independence. He cautioned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent and threaten peace and stability across Africa. The AU reaffirmed its full backing for Somalia’s federal authorities, stressing its commitment to peace-building, state consolidation and inclusive governance, despite renewed international debate following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.