Somalia

Somalia is divided into two major clans and several sub-clans and families. The Somali ethnicity represents 85 percent of the population and the reaming 15 percent are mainly of Arab and Buntu descent, alongside other smaller minorities. Clan tension in Somalia has been a driving force behind the violence. The delicate clan, sub-clan and family inter relationships can easily erupt into violence and the number of victims of clan-based violence continues to increase.

There are two quasi independent states in Somalia. Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 under the name the Republic of Somaliland, is largely clan-based, with the majority of the population from the Isaaq clan. Somaliland seeks international acclimation for its independence. Alternatively, Puntland, which declared its independence in 1998 under the name the State of Puntland the Republic of Somalia, wishes to stay under the Somalian flag. Puntland's majority is the Darod clan.

Recent violence in Somalia, particularly around the capital of Mogadishu, has caused an increase in Somalis who are fleeing the country. Many are now seeking refugee status around the world. In addition to the open violence, the human rights situation in Somalia is worrying. Prosecution and imprisonment conditions are not monitored by international organizations. Women and minors have been the subject of trafficking as well as other human rights abuses including domestic violence, rape and female genital mutilation (FGM).