The Role of Civil Registration in Enhancing National Security and Stability in Somalia.

Abstract

This article examines the critical role of civil registration in enhancing national security and stability in Somalia. Grounded in the theory of governance and state-building, the study emphasizes the importance of accurate civil registration systems in establishing identity, promoting accountability, and enabling effective governance. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it integrates qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, engaging stakeholders including government officials, NGOs, and community leaders. The findings reveal that the findings from the study indicate a strong recognition of the importance of civil registration among participants, with 90% acknowledging its role in preventing fraud and 85% providing its significance in enhancing identity verification. Despite the recognized importance of civil registration, significant challenges persist. Security concerns were identified by 85% of participants as a major barrier to effective civil registration in Somalia. The benefits of civil registration are significant, with 82% of participants recognizing its role in improving health outcomes. Participants also unveiled economic development (78%) and enhanced legal rights (76%) as significant advantages of civil registration. Participants offered several recommendations for enhancing civil registration, with 88% emphasizing the need to increase public awareness. Strengthening security measures (80%) was also deemed important, reflecting a widespread recognition that effective governance requires a secure environment where citizens feel safe to participate in civil processes. It is conclude that civil registration plays a vital role in enhancing national security and stability in Somalia, serving as an important mechanism for identity verification, resource allocation, and community trust. The findings of this study unveil the profound implications of a good civil registration system, particularly in a context characterized by insecurity and fragmented governance. The challenges faced by Somalia's civil registration system is stemming from decades of conflict and instability. The lack of centralized governance has led to inconsistent practices and significant gap in public awareness regarding the importance of civil registration. It was recommended that to realize the potential benefits of civil registration, comprehensive strategies should implemented to strengthen these systems. The government should prioritize investments in civil registration infrastructure to ensure accessibility and reliability.  The government, along with NGOs and community leaders, should conduct outreach programs that inform citizens about the importance of registering vital events. Collaboration between government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations can enhance the effectiveness of civil registration efforts. Finally, enhancing Somalia’s civil registration system is imperative for the nation’s security, governance, and social cohesion.