The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday voted to initiate a two-year phased withdrawal of its political mission in Somalia, UNSOM.
The decision comes after more than a decade of the UN’s presence in the East African nation, which has been grappling with decades of conflict and instability.
Established in 2013, UNSOM was tasked with supporting Somali authorities in their transition to democracy and the rule of law. However, the country continues to face significant challenges, including militant insurgencies and political instability.
In May, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud requested an end to the UN mission’s mandate in October 2023. Subsequently, the government amended its request, proposing a two-year transition period.
The Security Council’s resolution, adopted unanimously, aligns with this proposal. The UN mission will now be known as the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS).
During the first year of the transition, UNTMIS will prioritize supporting free and fair elections and safeguarding human rights. A gradual handover of responsibilities to Somali authorities is planned for the end of this initial phase.
The UN’s decision to withdraw from Somalia comes amid growing scrutiny of its peacekeeping operations in Africa.
Several African nations have expressed increasing hostility towards UN missions, highlighting the challenges of maintaining international peace and security in a complex and evolving global landscape.