Last Change:
06/02/2025
Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland
Year: 2001
Type: Domestic law
Rights Category: Asylum, Education, Freedom of movement, Health, Housing, land & property, Liberty & security of person, Nationality & facilitated naturalization, Social protection, Work & Workplace rights, Family life, Documentation
Description
The Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland, adopted in 2001 through a referendum, serves as the supreme law of Somaliland, outlining its governance structure, legal framework, and fundamental rights. It establishes Somaliland as a sovereign, democratic, and unitary state, with a presidential system that separates executive, legislative, and judicial powers. The constitution establishes fundamental rights and freedoms, including equality, freedom of expression, and rule of law, while emphasizing Islam as the state religion and the foundation of legislation. It also provides guidelines on citizenship, decentralization, and governance, reinforcing Somaliland’s commitment to self-rule and stability despite lacking international recognition.
Selected provisions
Every person shall have the right to institute proceedings in a competent court in accordance with
the law.
Every person shall have the right to defend himself in a court.
1. Every person shall have the right to own private property, provided that it is acquired lawfully.
2. Private property acquired lawfully shall not be expropriated except for reasons of public interest
and provided that proper compensation is paid.
3. The law shall determine matters that are within the public interest, which may bring about the
expropriation of private property