AU, EU Warn Funding Shortfalls Could Undermine Somalia Security Gains

The African Union and European Union have expressed concerns that financial and operational challenges facing the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia could undermine security gains in the country. This warning comes as Somalia assumes greater responsibility for its national security, with international support remaining crucial to ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab militants. The two organizations stress the need for predictable, adequate, and sustainable funding for the mission.

In a joint communiqué issued after their 17th annual consultative meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the AU and EU called for a Somali-led assessment of the anticipated reduction in logistical support from the United Nations Support Office in Somalia. They also emphasized the potential impact on security operations and commended the Somali Federal Government and AUSSOM forces for progress in the fight against Al-Shabaab. Countries contributing troops and police personnel to the mission were praised, and additional security assistance provided through bilateral agreements was welcomed.

The AU and EU expressed serious concern over the mission's financial and operational difficulties, warning that failure to address them could disrupt ongoing operations and jeopardize security gains. They urged the international community to provide sufficient, predictable, and sustainable financial support to ensure the continuity of AU-led peace support operations in Somalia. The two organizations identified potential funding mechanisms, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719, the African Union Peace Fund, and contributions from international partners.

The United States has communicated concerns over its financial support for AUSSOM to the Somali government through Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. Washington's financial contribution to the mission is due to end in December this year, adding to uncertainty over AUSSOM's long-term funding arrangements. This development comes as Somalia works to build and strengthen its own security forces to gradually assume full responsibility for national security.

The expected reduction in UN logistical assistance and uncertainty surrounding the mission's financing coincide with Somalia's efforts to build its security forces. The AU and EU reaffirmed their support for Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence, pledging to continue backing the country. AUSSOM replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia in January 2025, following the conclusion of the African Union Mission in Somalia.

The mission is mandated to support Somali security forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab and strengthen the government's capacity to maintain security across the country. The AU and EU's warning highlights the critical need for sustained international support to consolidate security gains and ensure the long-term stability of Somalia.

Key points emphasized by the AU and EU include the need for predictable and sustainable financing for AUSSOM, a Somali-led assessment of the reduction in logistical support from UNSOS, and the importance of international support to maintain security operations.

Key points

• The African Union and European Union stress the need for predictable, adequate, and sustainable funding for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia.
• The mission's financial and operational difficulties could disrupt ongoing operations and jeopardize security gains in Somalia.
• The AU and EU reaffirmed their support for Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.