The failed nation state of Somalia, whose people are plagued with drought, civil conflict, health crises, pirates and terrorists, was the focus of a joint congressional hearing by the House Africa, Global Health and Human Rights Subcommittee chaired by Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04), and the Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade Subcommittee chaired by Rep. Ed Royce (CA-40).
The hearing, entitled “Assessing the Consequences of the Failed State of Somalia,” featured expert testimony from the U.S. State Department, U.S. Agency for International Development, and humanitarian organizations which are all attempting to aid the suffering people of Somalia.
“For too long, Somalia has been a cancer on the Horn of Africa and elsewhere on the continent,” said Smith. “Criminals from Somalia have not only plagued surrounding countries, but have been reportedly involved in drug and human trafficking as far south as South Africa. However, the most serious involvement of Somalia in international criminal activity by far is in piracy.”
Smith said there were over 200 reported pirate attacks in the region in 2010, with 49 successful hijackings. Click here to read Chairman Smith’s opening remarks. Click here to watch the opening and first panel of the hearing on C-SPAN video.
Donald Y. Yamamoto, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Bureau of African Affairs, U.S. Department of State, said the U.S. must work with Somali authorities and other regional states to enhance capacity to prosecute suspected pirates and imprison those convicted.
“Internationally, more focus should be placed on tracing financial flows in order to determine who benefits most from piracy, both within Somalia as well as externally,” Yamamoto said. “We hope that two recent international conferences will contribute to this effort. There are no instant fixes to the issues that contribute to Somalis taking to the sea as pirates. Nonetheless, Somalia’s political leaders must commit to combating this scourge and work together in a consistent fashion to bring it to an end.” Click here to read Yamamoto’s testimony.
Nancy Lindborg, Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Affairs, U.S. Agency for International Development, said U.S. assistance helps feed 1.2 million people in accessible areas of the county and treat thousands of severely malnourished Somalis. U.S. assistance also provides health care, clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene education and supplies.
“As unfortunate as it may be, we do expect the situation in Somalia to continue to decline,” Lindborg said. “Famine conditions are possible in the worst affected areas depending on the evolution of food prices, conflict, and humanitarian response.” Click here to read Lindborg’s testimony.
The other knowledgeable witnesses who testified were (click on name to read their testimony):
- Reuben Brigety, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, U.S. Department of State;
- J. Peter Pham, Director of the Michael S. Ansari Africa Center, Atlantic Council;
- Browyn Bruton, fellow, the One Earth Future Foundation;
- Martin Murphy, of the Corbett Centre for Maritime Policy, King's College, London, and;
- David H. Shinn, Adjunct Professor, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University.
