Abstract
This Comment examines the legality of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and the unrecognized territory of Somaliland. It analyzes whether Somaliland satisfies the criteria for statehood under the Montevideo Convention and argues that the MoU is valid despite Somaliland’s lack of formal recognition. The Comment also evaluates Ethiopia’s obligations under customary international law and its commitments to the United Nations and African Union, addressing concerns about Somalia’s territorial integrity while affirming Somaliland’s right to self-determination. The Comment will begin by providing an overview of Somaliland’s bid for statehood and the strategic motivations behind the MoU. It will then analyze the legal status of Somaliland under international law, Ethiopia’s obligations under existing treaties, and the applicability of customary law in legitimizing the MoU. Finally, the Comment will recommend strategies for resolving potential legal conflicts, including arbitration within the African Union and advocacy for Somaliland’s international recognition to ensure regional stability.