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Somaliland is a self-declared state located in the Horn of Africa. It is a region that is internationally recognized as a part of Somalia, but which declared independence from the rest of the country in 1991 after the collapse of the central government in Somalia. Since then, Somaliland has managed to establish a functioning government and maintain relative stability, despite not being recognized as an independent nation by the international community. The region has its own president, parliament, and judiciary, and has held a number of democratic elections, which have been praised for their fairness and transparency. Somaliland has a population of around 4 million people and covers an area of approximately 137,600 square kilometers. The economy of Somaliland is largely based on livestock, with the region being home to one of the largest camel populations in the world. The region also has a small but growing private sector, with industries such as telecommunications, construction, and trade. Despite its relative stability, Somaliland faces a number of challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of infrastructure. The region also faces security threats from the militant group Al-Shabaab, which operates in neighboring Somalia and has carried out attacks in Somaliland in the past. History: Somaliland was a British protectorate for much of the 20th century until it gained independence in 1960 and merged with Italian Somalia to form the Somali Republic. Following the collapse of the Somali government in 1991, Somaliland declared independence and has since been seeking international recognition as a sovereign state. Governance: Somaliland has a unique hybrid political system that combines traditional clan-based structures with modern democratic institutions. The president and parliament are elected by popular vote, but traditional elders also play a significant role in decision-making. Culture: Somaliland has a rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back thousands of years. The region is home to numerous archaeological sites, including the ancient port city of Zeila, which was an important center of trade in the medieval period. Somaliland is also known for its poetry, music, and traditional dance. Natural resources: Somaliland is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals such as gold, copper, and iron. However, the lack of international recognition has made it difficult for the region to attract investment and fully exploit these resources. International recognition: Somaliland has not been recognized as an independent state by any country, and its status remains a matter of dispute. However, the region has been praised for its democratic governance, and some countries, such as Ethiopia and Djibouti, maintain unofficial diplomatic relations with Somaliland.