Somalia Aims for UN Security Council Seat Amid Renewed Efforts for Peace

After decades of instability, Somalia is preparing to run for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council later this year. This move represents a significant step towards contributing to global peace and security efforts.

The United Nations Security Council recently adopted a presidential statement aimed at strengthening the role of African countries in addressing global security and development challenges. The statement underscores the Council's support for the African Union and sub-regional organizations in promoting peace and security on the continent.

Why this matters: Somalia's bid for a UN Security Council seat has significant implications for global peace and security efforts, particularly in the African region. A successful bid could lead to increased African representation and influence in international decision-making, potentially shaping the course of global governance and conflict resolution.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the importance of peace in Africa, stating, "Africa is home to many examples of unity and solidarity in a fractured world." He emphasized that "all of these efforts require peace in Africa and beyond," noting the severe human and developmental costs of conflicts on the continent.

The presidential statement, issued as S/PRST/2024/2, calls on the international community to honor their commitments regarding financing for development and support the strengthening of African States' capabilities. Additionally, the Council expressed readiness to consider appropriate support for African Union-led peace support operations on a case-by-case basis, as outlined in Council resolution 2719 (2023).

Somalia's bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council aligns with the broader efforts to enhance the role and representation of African States in global governance and decision-making processes. This move is seen as crucial in advancing African ownership of international peace, security, and development efforts.

The African Union has been a significant player in Somalia's journey towards stability. The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), operational since April 1, 2022, has made substantial progress in supporting the Somali National Army, the Somali Police Force, and Federal institutions. According to AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, *"AMISOM achieved significant gains... This new adapted mission mandate reflects the evolving situation in the country, and the African Union's continued commitment to support the sisterly nation of Somalia in its pursuit to restore lasting peace, security, and stability. "*

Recently, a high-level delegation from the African Union Commission, led by General Cheick Dembele, reassured Somalia of their support ahead of the ATMIS exit. This visit underscores the continued commitment of the African Union to assist Somalia in achieving stability and peace.

Somalia's preparation to run for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council signifies a pivotal moment in its efforts to contribute to global peace and security. The support from the African Union and the international community will be essential in this endeavor.

Key Takeaways

• Somalia to run for non-permanent UN Security Council seat, a step towards global peace and security.
• African Union supports Somalia's bid, promoting African representation in international decision-making.
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes importance of peace in Africa for global governance.
• African Union's ATMIS mission has made progress in supporting Somali institutions and security.
• Somalia's bid aligns with efforts to enhance African ownership of international peace and security efforts.