Somalia has announced a ban on travelers holding Taiwanese passports. The move comes after Taiwan increased its support for Somaliland, a region in northern Somalia that claims independence.
Why the Ban Happened
The Somali government said the ban was necessary because Taiwan is interfering in its internal affairs. Taiwan recently strengthened its ties with Somaliland by sending diplomats and offering aid and training. Somalia does not recognize Somaliland as a separate country and considers it part of its territory.
This decision reflects growing tensions. Just as China sees Taiwan as part of its own territory, Somalia sees Somaliland the same way. Taiwan’s support for Somaliland is seen by Mogadishu as a challenge to Somali unity.
Background on the Somalia–Somaliland Conflict
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, after the fall of Somalia’s central government. Since then, Somaliland has held democratic elections, built its own institutions, and kept peace in its region. However, it is still not recognized as an independent state by any country, including the United Nations.
Somalia, on the other hand, says that Somaliland is still part of its national territory. The two sides have had many talks over the years, but they have not reached a final agreement.
Taiwan’s Role in Somaliland
Taiwan opened a representative office in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, in 2020. Somaliland also has an office in Taipei. This exchange of diplomats is rare, since Taiwan is only officially recognized by a few countries. Most countries follow China’s “One-China” policy and do not recognize Taiwan as a country.
Despite this, Taiwan has increased its support for Somaliland. It has offered development aid, scholarships, medical supplies, and training for government workers. This support has helped Somaliland improve its services and international image.
China’s Influence in the Background
China has strong political and economic ties with Somalia. It also does not recognize Taiwan and has been urging countries around the world to stop engaging with it. China’s goal is to isolate Taiwan and prevent it from gaining international recognition.
Somalia’s new policy helps China achieve this goal. By banning Taiwanese citizens, Somalia is showing that it stands with China in the global dispute over Taiwan.
Experts say this move increases the tension in the Horn of Africa. “The Somalia-Somaliland conflict is already one of the most complex in the region,” an analyst told The New York Times. “Adding Taiwan and China to the mix brings a new global angle to the issue.”
What This Means for Travelers
With the new rule in place, people holding Taiwanese passports are no longer allowed to enter Somalia. It is not yet clear how this will affect humanitarian missions, business trips, or diplomatic visits involving Taiwan.
So far, there has been no official reaction from the Taiwanese government. However, the move could make Taiwan more determined to support Somaliland’s independence push.
What’s Next?
This ban might deepen divisions between Somalia and Somaliland. It may also lead to more involvement from China and Taiwan in the region. Experts are watching closely to see if other African nations follow Somalia’s lead in banning Taiwanese passport holders.
Meanwhile, Somaliland continues to push for international recognition. With support from Taiwan and its own stable government, it hopes to one day join the international community as a separate state.
