SOMALIA'S ENGAGEMENT WITH REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF THE AFRICAN UNION, IGAD, AND OTHER REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS ON SOMALIA'S FOREIGN POLICY AND NATIONAL INTERESTS

Author Name: Yasin Mustaf Ibrahim

Volume/Issue: 03/12

Country: Somalia

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/06.2023-34117127/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Independent Researcher, Somalia

ABSTRACT

Somalia's engagement with regional organizations has been an integral aspect of its foreign policy and national interest. This study provides an overview of Somalia's history and foreign relations, as well as an overview of regional organizations in Africa and their role in Somalia's foreign policy. The study specifically focuses on the African Union (AU), Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and other regional organizations. The first section of the paper examines the history and evolution of the AU's engagement in Somalia, including the AU peacekeeping missions and their impact on Somalia's security. The paper also discusses criticisms of the AU's approach to Somalia. The second section of the study explores the founding and purpose of IGAD, as well as IGAD's involvement in Somalia's peace and reconciliation processes. The study also discusses the challenges and limitations of IGAD's efforts in Somalia. The third section of the study examines the role of other regional organizations, including the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and other regional organizations, in Somalia's foreign policy. The study also explores economic and diplomatic ties between Somalia and other African countries. The fourth section of the study assesses the impact of regional organizations on Somalia's foreign policy and national interests. The study discusses the benefits and drawbacks of Somalia's engagement with regional organizations, as well as how regional organizations have influenced Somalia's foreign policy priorities. The study also discusses the implications of Somalia's foreign relations for its economic development, security, and governance. In conclusion, this study highlights the key takeaways and implications for Somalia's future engagement with regional organizations. The study also provides recommendations for strengthening Somalia's relations with regional partners. Overall, this study demonstrates the importance of Somalia's engagement with regional organizations in achieving its foreign policy and national interests.

Key words: Somalia, regional organizations, African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development, Arab League, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, foreign policy, national interests