Somalia: A Failed State

Somalia is considered by some to be a failed state. It is considered a failed state for good reason; the list is lengthy. Somalia has not had a stable or even functioning government since 1992. The UN backed transitional government has never been able to get a foothold into the country. Pirates still command the longest coast in the world keeping at bay much needed food and medical supplies from entering the country. And because of the weakened government, Somalia has become prey to numerous militant and rogue governments fighting for ultimate control.

Recently, a militia faction operating in Somalia has disowned an agreement that was mad to bolster efforts of the government and root out radical Islamic militias. Since a section of the militia leadership disowned the deal, concerns have now been raised as to how much headway has actually been made.

It has also been confirmed that an al-Shabaab commander has been assassinated as he was leaving a mosque in the city of Kismayo. Al-Shabaab has been fighting Hizbul-Islam forcing many Somalians to flee to nearby countries. The two Islamist groups are fighting against the weak Somali government and the African Union soldiers.

It seems that all sides are being heard or expressed in some way. All the voices except for the people who are having to flee the violence. We don’t hear from the women and children who have died because the international community has sat by and looked the other way. We condemn the piracy, even though it began because European countries were encroaching on the fisherman’s waters. A hand was never extended.