The United Nations Security Council has approved the establishment of a new African Union-led mission in Somalia.
The resolution to establish the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) passed with overwhelming support, securing 14 votes in favor, with only the United States abstaining. AUSSOM will replace the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which concludes its mandate on December 31.
Up to 12,626 uniformed personnel, including 1,040 police officers, may be deployed by African Union members until June 30, 2025, in accordance with the new mandate. In order to realign all forces from ATMIS to AUSSOM within this timeframe, the resolution specifies a planned transition period.
James Kariuki, the deputy permanent representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations, highlighted the importance of the resolution in strengthening global solidarity with Somalia. According to Kariuki, “It authorizes AUSSOM to support Somalia in its fight against Al Shabab, strengthen Somalia’s stabilization efforts, and enable the delivery of humanitarian assistance,” the Council meeting heard.
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