UN Begins Discussions with Somalia Government on Future of UNSOM Operations

The United Nations has initiated discussions with the Federal Government of Somalia concerning the cessation of operations by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM). This comes after Somalia formally requested the termination of UNSOM’s mandate.

A spokesperson for UNSOM affirmed the commencement of these discussions, highlighting the collaborative efforts between UNSOM and Somalian authorities over the years. The spokesperson clarified that while the decision by the Somalian government was anticipated, it underscores the significant contributions of UNSOM to Somalia’s development.

In the formal request to the UN, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Moalim Fiqi refrained from providing specific reasons for the suspension of UNSOM, expressing instead the government’s belief in transitioning to the next phase of partnership with the UN.

Despite the discontinuation of UNSOM operations, other UN offices, including humanitarian agencies, will continue their activities in Somalia. As reported by UNSOM which was established in 2013.