Gavin Williamson, the former UK Defense Secretary, has been a vocal ally of Somaliland recognition for a long time. In 2022, he tabled a bill in the UK Parliament requiring the government to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state. The bill was not passed, yet it created a ton of conversation and discussion about the issue.

Williamson has contended that Somaliland meets all the criteria for statehood, and that acknowledgment would have various advantages for both Somaliland and the UK. He has likewise said that the UK has an ethical commitment to recognize Somaliland, given its colonial history of British protectorate that spanned for 75 years prior to independence in 1960.

Williamson’s efforts to promote Somaliland recognition have been praised by many people, but they have also been criticized by some.

Regardless of the criticism, Williamson has kept on advocating for Somaliland recognition. He believes that it is the correct thing to do, and that it would be in the best interests of both Somaliland and the UK

Williamson has made enormous efforts promoting Somaliland recognition:

• He has met with Somaliland officials on a number of occasions, including his current tour in the country
• He has spoken out in support of Somaliland recognition in the UK Parliament and in the media.
• He has worked with other MPs to introduce a bill calling for Somaliland recognition.
• He has lobbied the UK government to recognize Somaliland.

Williamson’s efforts have helped raise awareness of Somaliland and the issue of recognition. They have also put pressure on the UK government to reconsider its position on Somaliland. It remains to be seen whether Williamson’s efforts will be successful, but he has certainly made a significant contribution to the cause of Somaliland recognition.