Heritage Tourism Development in Post-conflict Somaliland: The Politics of Stakeholders in Heritage Tourism and Nation Building in a Country Without International Recognition.

Nuur Mahamed, Abdirahman (2024). Heritage Tourism Development in Post-conflict Somaliland: The Politics of Stakeholders in Heritage Tourism and Nation Building in a Country Without International Recognition. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Three decades after Somaliland’s reassertion of independence from Somalia in 1991, heritage has become a contested political space for nation-building in the post-conflict environment. This study takes its point of departure with a main research question, exploring whether Somaliland’s government has a strategy for developing heritage tourism as part of its post-conflict economic reconstruction. This question is addressed through two sub-questions. The first sub-question (RQ2) assesses the factors to consider when dealing with heritage tourism development in Somaliland. The second sub-question (RQ3) explores the role of heritage in nation-building following the liberation conflict with Somalia and how heritage was applied during Somaliland’s post-conflict economic reconstruction. Through qualitative research methods, this thesis explores whether there are heritage tourism development strategies in Somaliland and what factors to consider when dealing with the country’s heritage. The data collected for this study was obtained from 171 respondents who participated through surveys, focus groups, and interviews. This study shows how Somaliland’s unique position of not being internationally recognised has significant implications and risks, not least of which is the potential for reigniting regional conflicts. Overall, this thesis demonstrates how heritage in post-conflict environments can take on several meanings to different groups, which is both contentious and dangerous for the heritage itself.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):