UNITED NATIONS — In a significant move, the U.N. Security Council has unanimously voted to extend the African Union’s peacekeeping mission in Somalia, known as ATMIS, through the end of 2023. This decision marks a crucial step toward enhancing the country’s security capabilities.
The resolution, spearheaded by the United Kingdom, allows the African Union to continue deploying a maximum of 12,626 uniformed personnel, including 1,040 police officers. The U.N. political mission in Somalia is also requested to provide logistical support to these peacekeepers.
The deputy U.K. ambassador to the U.N. highlighted the resolution’s importance, stating it arrives at a pivotal moment for Somalia’s security transition.
With the ATMIS mission set to scale down by the year’s end, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council has backed plans for a new successor mission.
The Security Council acknowledged a proposal from the African Union for an AU-led peace operation to succeed ATMIS, which was communicated on August 1.
U.N. Secretary-General and the head of the African Union Commission are tasked with reporting back to the Security Council by November 15 on the design for this successor mission, incorporating insights from Somalia and other key international stakeholders.
Financial considerations for the new peacekeeping mission remain critical, with the resolution calling for an update on estimated costs and required resources by October 11.
To sustain progress, the resolution encourages the Somali government to continue implementing its Security Sector Development Plan, which is essential for Somalia to eventually take full ownership of its security.
Since the outbreak of civil war in 1991, Somalia has worked to establish stability amid ongoing challenges, including threats from extremist groups and piracy in the region.
The al-Qaida-affiliated group al-Shabab has increased assaults on Somali military bases, following a military strategy aimed at disrupting its control over various territories.
The adopted resolution expresses deep concern over the al-Shabab threat, condemning recent terrorist attacks, including a deadly assault on a Somali beach hotel that tragically resulted in 37 deaths.
U.S. officials commended Somalia’s determination to combat al-Shabab, affirming that the continuation of ATMIS will contribute significantly to reduced threats posed by the group during this critical period.
The Somali Ambassador expressed gratitude for the support of international partners in the ongoing fight against extremism, emphasizing efforts to build capable and accountable security forces.
He underscored the urgent need for technical support and logistics to bolster Somali forces, ensuring a smooth transition as the country prepares for post-ATMIS security arrangements slated for 2025.
