The European Union (EU) and its Member States adopted the financial contribution to the African Union (AU) Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) with an amount of EUR 75 million, confirming the EU as its largest supporter. This brings the EU total support to successive AU-led missions over the last two decades to almost EUR 2.8 billion.
This support will strengthen AUSSOM’s operational readiness and ability to deliver its mandate in full compliance with international human rights law and international humanitarian law. The support measure will help maintain security and protect civilians in areas affected by Al-Shabaab and other terrorist groups.
The EU will provide an additional €75 million, bringing its total support to successive AU-led missions in Somalia to almost €2.8 billion since 2007.
The funding will mainly cover troop allowances for personnel deployed in Somalia, as well as non-lethal equipment and related services.
Background
The EPF was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the EPF allows the EU to finance military aspects of peace support operations led by a regional or international organisation or by third States as well as actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters.
The EU remains the largest direct contributor to successive missions in Somalia led by the AU.
Under the EU’s integrated approach to external conflicts and crises, funding for AUSSOM under the EPF forms part of wider EU support for peace and security in Somalia and across the Horn of Africa. This includes capacity-building support for the Somali National Army to enable the gradual transfer of security responsibilities.
