In the early 1990s, Somalia was plunged into a civil war that led to the disintegration of the central government and widespread chaos across the country. Amid this turmoil, Northern Somalia, known as Somaliland, sought to establish itself as an independent state. The Somali National Movement, an opposition group that had been advocating for the rights of the people in the north, declared Somaliland a sovereign nation on May 18, 1991. This declaration was a response to years of marginalization and conflict under the Siad Barre regime, which had led to violent repression in the region. Following the collapse of the central government, leaders and clans in Somaliland viewed independence as a necessary step to achieve self-determination and restore stability and security in their region.

The leaders of Somaliland, including figures such as Abdirahman Ahmed Ali Tuur, who became the first president of the newly declared republic, worked to create a framework for governance that would address the needs of the people. Initial steps included establishing a constitution, forming a government, and organizing civic functions. The declaration garnered significant support among the local population, who had suffered greatly from the preceding conflicts. Although Somaliland's independence has not been recognized by any United Nations member state, the region has maintained relative peace compared to the rest of Somalia and has established a functioning political system.

The declaration of independence triggered a complex situation with international implications, drawing attention to issues of self-determination and state sovereignty in Africa. Somaliland has sought to gain recognition while maintaining its stability and governance structures. The region has also become a focal point for discussions on the efficacy of governance and the prospects for peace in fractured nations.