Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The African Union’s categorical and resounding rejection of Israel’s recognition of the breakaway “Republic of Somaliland” has sparked a wave of questions
and political controversy, especially in Morocco.
He highlighted the “glaring contradiction” in the positions of the continental organization,
which rejects secession in Somalia.
While it continues to embrace a separatist entity (the Polisario Front) within its ranks.
A fierce defense of Somali unity
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,
affirmed in an official statement the organization’s “unwavering”
commitment to the unity and sovereignty of Somalia.
He stressed that “Somaliland” is an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Youssef based his position on the principle of “respecting the borders
inherited from independence” (1964 resolution).
He warned that any infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty would create
a dangerous precedent that threatens the security and stability of the African continent.
Moroccan question marks
Moroccan politicians and media outlets considered this stance to be putting
the African Union in “confrontation with itself”;
While the Union adheres to the principles of international law to prevent the recognition of “Somaliland”,
It still includes in its membership the so-called “Sahrawi Republic” unilaterally declared,
Unlike member states, which lack international recognition,
the “Sahrawi Republic” has never been recognized by the United Nations.
This contrasts with the precedent set by South Sudan, whose accession to the Union in 2011
This came after official recognition from the mother country (Sudan),
which did not happen in the case of the Moroccan Sahara or Somaliland.
International pressure and Israeli policies
This African paradox comes at a time of increasing pressure from global powers such as China and Russia.
Both countries refuse to allow the Polisario Front to attend international summits
(such as the Cairo Economic Forum in December 2025 and the St. Petersburg Summit).
These powers stipulate that only countries recognized by the United Nations may attend.
In a related context, observers believe that Israel’s recognition of “Somaliland” may be followed by other steps.
Such as the possibility of recognizing the “Republic of Tribes” (which was recently declared in Paris),
This could put the African Union and Algeria in an additional difficult position.
The Union will once again have to choose between defending
the “territorial integrity of its members” or continuing its policy of “double standards”.
