27/07/2026
For many years, textbooks and international media have portrayed Somalia as a failed state. Around the world, the mere mention of Somalia often evokes images of piracy, famine, and terrorism. Despite these negative perceptions, Somali citizens have long held onto one enduring hope: that the establishment of effective, accountable governance would restore peace, strengthen institutions, and replace these damaging stereotypes with a stable and prosperous nation.
However, it is deeply melancholic that today a significant proportion of Somalis believe that lawlessness has caused them less harm than poor governance. This perception stems from widespread corruption, abuse of power, and the unlawful seizure of public and private land. Rather than experiencing the benefits of a functioning state, many citizens feel that weak governance has undermined justice, eroded public trust, and deprived them of their fundamental rights. This reality highlights the urgent need for transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance that serves the interests of all Somalis.