Somalia approves UN decision to transition UNSOM

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia agreed to the decision by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to transition the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) to a temporary mission, which gives the country time to test its internal institutions amid the transition.

Beginning yesterday, Somalia entered a new phase where the country's mission shall evaluate the progress made and gaps to be sealed as the Horn of Africa nation rushes to stabilize after three decades of political upheaval and insecurity.

On Wednesday, the United Nations Security Council approved the creation of the United Nations Transitional Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), which will replace UNSOM, established in 2013 to support Somalia's transition to democracy and the rule of law.

The new mission aims to shift UNSOM's responsibilities to the Somali Federal Government and local UN agencies by October 31, 2026. Somalia largely depends on external forces for stability, including such missions for stability.

Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the new development gives the country ample time to gradually phase out UNSOM, a move that would significantly assist the country in transforming its internal institutions.

The proposal, presented in August through UN Secretary-General António Guterres, came after months of collaborative discussions between Somali officials and UNSOM's joint technical committee.

"This diplomatic milestone reflects the shared vision of the United Nations and Somalia for a peaceful, resilient nation, equipped to guide its national agenda and engage as a strong international partner" stated the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The new transition comes at the time Somalia is also getting rid of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) which is set to become the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), whose roles officially begin in January 2025.

GAROWE ONLINE