Key Barriers to Democratization in Somalia: Corruption, Clan Affiliation, Climate Change, and Human Capital Constraints

Abdi Halane Hirsi

Abstract: Since gaining independence Somalia has struggled to establish a governance system based on the rule of law. As we all know in our history Somalia has faced numerous challenges in its democratization journey since gaining independence in 1960 & this study examines four critical obstacles: corruption, entrenched clan affiliations, climate change, and human capital constraints. Corruption erodes trust in democratic institutions, while clan-based politics fragments governance. Climate change exacerbates socio-economic vulnerabilities, and limited human capital development hinders civic engagement. This paper argues that overcoming these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including institutional reforms, climate resilience strategies, and investments in education. The study highlights the role of both domestic efforts and international partnerships in fostering sustainable democratic governance in Somalia. Corruption: Widespread corruption undermines democratic institutions, hinders the rule of law, and erodes public trust in the democratization process of our Country/Somalia. Clan Affiliation: Deep-rooted clan affiliations often supersede national identity, leading to political fragmentation, conflicts and difficulties in building a cohesive & inclusive democratic system in Somalia. The democratization improvement in Somalia faces significant hurdles in the form of corruption, climate change, limited human capital capacity, and entrenched clan affiliations. Overcoming these obstacles requires concerted efforts from both domestic and international stakeholders to foster transparency, resilience, capacity-building, and inclusive governance structures. Climate Changes: Environmental challenges, such as droughts and other climate-related issues, contribute to resource scarcity, exacerbate existing tensions, and pose obstacles to sustainable development and political stability. Human Capitals constraints: Limited education and skills development hinder the capacity of the population to actively engage in democratic processes, creating challenges for the establishment of a well-informed and participatory citizenry.

Keywords: Democratization, Somalia, Corruption, Clan Politics, Climate Change, Human Capital

How to Cite?: Abdi Halane Hirsi, "Key Barriers to Democratization in Somalia: Corruption, Clan Affiliation, Climate Change, and Human Capital Constraints", Volume 14 Issue 5, May 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 721-725, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25216115842, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25216115842