The Tortuous Journey of Federalism in Somalia: Current Perils and Future Hopes

Abstract

After many years of conflict and crisis, the installation of a federal
government and endorsement of a provisional federal constitution
were widely welcomed by Somalis and the international
community. The constitution establishes a number of federal
member states as well as a senate and lower house of parliament;
the country has also witnessed a peaceful transfer of power.
However, as Somalia moves towards a fully-fledged federal
system, the government faces the daunting task of leading, or
at least coordinating, the federation process without deepening
conflict. Al-Shabaab is far from defeated; social fragmentation
within Somalia is increasing; and political infighting continues
unabated.