The focus of this blog is mainly Human Rights, but before we explore that area I would like to give some insight into the country known as Somalia. Somalia is also known as the Republic of Somalia while under communist rule the country was known as Somali Democratic Republic. Somalia has not had a consistent form of central government since 1991, after the people overthrew President Siad Barree. Since the overthrow the country has been subjected to an unheard of amount of famine, genocide, and little to no "freedom of speech".
Often times coming from the United States one is not as aware of the inflictions upon other regions of the world, but in order to grow and understand the world we live in we must also remain up to date about the crisis or progress of other regions.
Population: 9.3 million (UN, 2010)
Capital: Mogadishu
Area: 637,657sq km (246,201 sq miles)
Major languages: Somali, Arabic, Italian, English
Major religion: Islam
Life expectancy: 50 years (men), 53 years (women)
Monetary unit: 1 Somali shilling = 100 cents
Main exports: Livestock, bananas, hides, fish
In addition, the country of Somalia being categorized as a "failed state" the area has been taken over by many tyrannical authoritators who find it better to rule in their own interest oppose to the interest of the people. The current President is Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, elected in 2009 after Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed resigned a month before. The country itself is not under one ruler, which probably is what brings most of the conflict. There are different sectors of the region ruled by different rulers elected by the Parliament. Much of the chaos stems from the conflict of religions, and the militant regimes are pushing for an Islamic nation. However, the affiliation with Al Qaeda brings awareness to the disgruntle rule that is taking place. Al Qaeda has been known for operating as a network comprising both a multinational, stateless army, as well as being viewed nationally as a terrorist group. Many Americans know that from the horrific events of September 11, 2001 that the militia group will go to extreme measures when it comes to gaining renowed relevance and respect. Over the course of these months we will go in depth further on many countries political systems but I can only hope that awareness is also brought to the individuals who research as well as read the findings of the CEA Human Rights class.
Sources: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/1072592.stm
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