Mogadishu (HOL) -- Somalia has officially reclaimed its seat on the United Nations Security Council, marking the first time in over half a century that the East African nation will serve as a non-permanent member. The two-year term began on January 1, 2025, representing a significant milestone in Somalia's efforts to reestablish itself on the global stage.
The election on June 6, 2024, saw Somalia secure 179 votes in the UN General Assembly, representing East Africa in an uncontested bid. Somalia joins Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, and Panama as new non-permanent members, replacing Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland.
James Swan, the UN Secretary-General's Acting Special Representative for Somalia, commended the nation's progress, stating, 'Somalia has come a long way over the past three decades on its path to peace, prosperity, and security.'
As a member of the 15-member council, Somalia will participate in decisions related to international peace and security, including sanctions and peacekeeping operations. Ambassador Abukar Dahir Osman expressed the nation's commitment to upholding the UN Charter and contributing to global peace and security.
This development comes amid complex internal and external challenges. Externally, the Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in January 2024, forced Somalia to engage diplomatically to counter the deal, which challenges its sovereignty. The Ankara Agreement, brokered by Turkey in December 2024, supported Somalia's territorial integrity and allowed Ethiopia access to Somali ports.
Domestically, the federal government struggles with limited territorial control and resistance from Al-Shabaab militants. Disputes with regional federal member states like Jubbaland and Puntland complicate governance efforts.
The African Union played a crucial role in securing Somalia's candidacy, endorsing the nation as East Africa's sole candidate after Tanzania withdrew its bid. Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre's diplomatic outreach was instrumental in garnering support.
Ambassador Osman called the election a 'diplomatic victory' that reflects the country's progress. However, analysts note ongoing disparities in internal governance, with Al-Shabaab and regional actors maintaining significant influence.
Somalia's last tenure on the Security Council was in 1971, and this election signifies its resilience and determination to reassert itself in international affairs.