The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) will conclude its operations on October 31, marking the end of a two-year transition period in line with UN Security Council resolutions. This transition was initiated following a request from the Somali federal government. The closure signifies the end of over three decades of UN political missions in Somalia that have been instrumental in supporting peacebuilding, state-building, governance, and national reconciliation efforts.
Under a transition roadmap agreed upon by the Somali government and the United Nations, the responsibilities of UNTMIS have been transferred to Somali institutions and UN agencies, funds, and programmes operating in the country. This handover aims to strengthen Somalia’s ownership of its peacebuilding and state-building agenda. As a result, national authorities will assume greater responsibility for work previously carried out under the mission’s mandate, reflecting a significant shift in the country's path towards self-governance.
The UN Secretary-General has praised the progress made in peacebuilding and security in Somalia over recent decades. He commended the resilience and determination of the Somali people despite the numerous challenges facing the country. The Secretary-General also recognised Somalia’s long journey from conflict towards recovery, highlighting the efforts made to rebuild institutions and advance stability. This acknowledgment underscores the strides made by Somalia in its quest for peace and stability.
The conclusion of UNTMIS does not signify the withdrawal of the United Nations from Somalia. The organisation has stated that it will continue to support the country through its agencies, funds, and programmes. This support will be provided in partnership with Somali authorities, the African Union, and other international partners. The focus of this continued support will be on advancing peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development, ensuring that the gains made are consolidated.
The transition follows years of changes in the UN’s presence in Somalia as the country has sought to strengthen its federal institutions. The Somali government has taken greater responsibility for national security and governance, marking a new phase in the country's development. This shift reflects the evolving needs of Somalia and the UN's commitment to adapting its support to meet these changing requirements.
The closure of UNTMIS marks a significant milestone in Somalia's journey towards peace and stability. It also signifies a new phase in relations between Somalia and the United Nations. Future cooperation is expected to rely increasingly on UN agencies and development programmes rather than a dedicated political mission. This change is anticipated to foster a more sustainable and self-reliant approach to peacebuilding and development in Somalia.
As Somalia moves forward, the focus will be on consolidating the progress made and addressing the remaining challenges. The Somali government, with the support of the international community, will continue to work towards achieving lasting peace and stability. The end of UNTMIS operations on October 31 will usher in a new era of cooperation and development, with Somalia taking the lead in its future.
Key points
- The UN Mission in Somalia concludes its operations on October 31, marking the end of over 30 years of UN political missions in the country.
- The transition of UNTMIS responsibilities to Somali institutions and UN agencies aims to strengthen Somalia’s ownership of its peacebuilding and state-building agenda.
- The United Nations will continue to support Somalia through its agencies, funds, and programmes, focusing on advancing peace, stability, human rights, and sustainable development.
