Laas Geel Academy of International Relations

Higher education plays a vital role in building and sustaining peace in Somaliland. The article “Reimagining the Role of Higher Education for Peacebuilding: Reflections from Somaliland,” through its innovative autoethnographic dialogue, underscores the importance of this sector. We are committed to advancing peace and stability in Somaliland by providing quality education through affordable services.

The Laas Geel Academy of International Relations sends its heartfelt greetings to Muslims in Somaliland and across the world celebrating Eid al-Fitr. May this joyous day bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to you and your families. Eid Mubarak.

LGIR extends warmest wishes for a blessed Ramadan to all Muslims observing the holy month here in Somaliland and throughout the world.

The Laas Geel Academy announces the release of its paper, “Sovereignty Restored: The Case for Somaliland’s Re-recognition.” This paper argues for Somaliland’s international recognition based on its unique historical claim. Unlike secession, it asserts sovereignty as a former state (1960) whose union with Somalia failed, aligning with the principle of uti possidetis. The paper highlights Somaliland’s three-decade record of stable, democratic separate governance, contrasting it with Somalia’s instability. It addresses geopolitical opposition and presents recent diplomatic moves as a potential shift. Ultimately, it concludes that recognizing Somaliland is a political choice that would reward effective governance and correct a longstanding anomaly. The full paper is available for download at https://laasgeel.org/laas_geel_papers.html

Operating at the nexus of a shifting global order, the LGIR is dedicated to becoming a preeminent center for teaching and research, uniquely equipped to address the complex challenges of international relations, diplomacy, and strategic security.

To ensure that the Institute's initial momentum translates into sustained impact, we are devoted to developing a detailed Five-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2029). This living document serves as a roadmap, providing clear direction & measurable objectives for the institute’s growth.

The LGIRJ invites scholars, researchers, and academics to submit original, unpublished works for its peer-reviewed Volume 2, scheduled for publication in June 2026.

Warmest congratulations and celebrations to the people of Somaliland! December 26, 2025, marks the end of a long period of isolation and a hard-won victory for your resilience. Your enduring commitment to your future has finally been met with the international recognition you have patiently earned. Congratulations!

It was an honor to attend a workshop on Maritime Governance and National Security Challenges in Taiwan organized by the Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University, in Taipei, Taiwan, on 19th November 2025.

As part of the Institute’s international engagement strategy, it was an honor to attend the International Conference on U.S.-China Strategic Competition in 2025: Implications for China and Cross-Strait Relations organized by the Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University in Taipei, Taiwan, on 21st October 2025.