Film Project

Unrecognized

Somaliland - a country of limited opportunities from the outside. Due to the lack of international recognition, the de facto state in the Horn of Africa lacks decisive economic and diplomatic opportunities. 5 portraits in 60 minutes about isolation, climate change and democracy.

“Unrecognized” tells the touching story of Somaliland, a democratic de facto state in north-western Somalia that is denied international recognition. In 60 minutes, 5 protagonists take a deep look into the peaceful soul of a nation that is technologically and domestically ahead of many African states - and yet is largely isolated by the international community. A moving look beyond the horizon!

"The world has changed and seems better. But we have more frequent and more severe droughts." (Marwo Hassan Said)

The story

The 60-minute documentary “Unrecognized” brings an often overlooked country in front of the lens: Somaliland. The protagonists Marwo, Sahra, Hamsa, Abdi and Nimco give the viewer an insight into the very different realities of their lives. One from the diaspora, a young university graduate, a shopkeeper in a refugee camp and two farmers who are struggling directly with the drought.

Five thematically organized chapters give the viewer a first-hand insight into Somaliland. Along the daily routine of the protagonists, the politics and history of the country as well as problems and opportunities are told. In addition, the film's images take the audience on a journey through an incredibly diverse country: nomadic shepherds wandering through the steppes with their goats and geese, enchanting sandy beaches, the seemingly endless rocky desert or the primeval forest in Daallo National Park.

Anyone expecting a pity-inducing film about a country on the poor African continent, destroyed by a civil war four decades ago and unable to help itself, will certainly be disappointed.

Rather, the film shows a country that has left war and dictatorship behind and is on the upswing despite major challenges. Nevertheless, “Unrecognized” is certainly not a blind hymn of praise for Somaliland, but rather a rare stage for Somalilanders to talk about their real challenges.