1. Democracy
Somaliland:
Political System: Somaliland is a self-declared independent republic in the Horn of Africa, which split from Somalia in 1991 after the collapse of the Somali government. It has not been internationally recognized as an independent state but functions like one.
Democracy: Somaliland is considered to have a relatively stable and functional democracy compared to many other regions in Africa. It holds regular elections (presidential and parliamentary), and there is a multi-party system. The most recent elections in 2022 were peaceful, and there is an active civil society. Although its democratic system is far from perfect, with challenges such as clan-based politics and corruption, it is seen as more democratic than its neighbors.
Political Freedom: Somaliland allows political opposition and has made progress in building democratic institutions. However, its government is often criticized for restricting freedom of expression, especially when it comes to journalists and opposition members.
Eritrea:
Political System: Eritrea has been under the authoritarian rule of President Isaias Afwerki since its independence from Ethiopia in 1993. The country does not hold elections, and all political parties except the ruling People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) are banned.
Democracy: Eritrea is considered one of the most repressive states in the world. There are no political freedoms, no free press, and no multi-party system. Citizens cannot freely criticize the government without facing severe consequences, including imprisonment or forced labor.
Political Freedom: Eritrea ranks very low in terms of political freedom, with reports of widespread human rights abuses, including arbitrary detention, torture, and forced military service.
2. Economy
Somaliland:
Economic Overview: Somaliland has a relatively informal, mostly subsistence-based economy with agriculture, livestock, and remittances from the diaspora being its primary sources of income. Its economy is also supported by trade through its ports, especially Berbera, which is an important gateway for regional trade.
Growth and Challenges: Despite the lack of formal international recognition, Somaliland has managed to attract some foreign investment, particularly in infrastructure projects like port development and roads. However, its economy faces challenges such as limited access to international markets due to non-recognition, dependence on remittances, and vulnerability to droughts.
Living Standards: Economic development has been hampered by its lack of recognition, but the region has managed to remain relatively stable compared to other parts of Somalia. There is no reliable GDP data, but estimates suggest modest growth, and there is a growing middle class.
Eritrea:
Economic Overview: Eritrea's economy is highly centralized and controlled by the government, with state-owned enterprises dominating key sectors. It is largely dependent on mining (particularly gold and copper), and the government has also focused on developing infrastructure, such as roads and ports.
Economic Performance: Eritrea’s economy has struggled with stagnation, and it has faced international sanctions, including from the UN, due to human rights abuses and military aggression in the region. The country has very limited foreign investment, and economic freedom is severely restricted. Agriculture remains underdeveloped, and the country has poor infrastructure and high levels of poverty.
Living Standards: Eritrea faces widespread poverty, food insecurity, and underdevelopment. The government’s policies, including forced conscription and limited personal freedoms, have led many citizens to flee the country. Many Eritreans live in exile, and the economy's restrictive nature makes it difficult for people to improve their living standards.
Conclusion:
In both democracy and economy, Somaliland generally performs better than Eritrea:
Democratically, Somaliland has a more functional political system with regular elections, greater political freedoms, and an active opposition, even though it's not perfect.
Economically, while both nations face challenges, Somaliland has a more diversified economy, with trade and remittances playing a role, while Eritrea's heavily centralized and state-controlled economy has faced stagnation, lack of foreign investment, and serious human rights concerns that have contributed to its economic struggles.
Eritrea remains a more repressive, economically isolated country, whereas Somaliland, despite its lack of international recognition, has built a more open and relatively more stable society.