The Fallen State: Dissonance, Dictatorship and Death in Somalia

Abstract

This book examines the problems of the first thirty years of African independence. Using Somalia as a case study, the author investigates the factors that have led to the present chaos. Somalia suffered the illnesses of other newly independent African states, including experiments in 'democracy' based on the Westminster model and excesses in the parliamentary system. The military government which followed attempted to effect certain reforms encompassing higher literacy rates and greater participation of women in public affairs; but wars, juntas, and droughts have all conspired to defeat the new state. In the wake of economic collapse, regime legitimacy disappeared, and 'ethnic' conflicts ensued. Peace among the warring clans and re-establishment of legitimate authority is still to come.