The African Union’s Peace and Security Council has strongly condemned Israel’s unilateral recognition of the “so‑called Republic of Somaliland” as an independent entity, warning that it threatens the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and stability of the Federal Republic of Somalia. In a statement issued after its 1 324th meeting on 6 January 2026, the council reaffirmed its commitment to the principles enshrined in the African Union’s Constitutive Act and the United Nations Charter.
The council recalled the AU’s long‑standing commitment to the inviolability of borders inherited at independence, a pledge made by all member states in 1964. It noted statements by various officials, including the Chairperson of the AU Commission, who rejected any initiative to recognise Somaliland as independent, citing the risk of undermining peace and stability across the continent. The council stressed that no actor has the authority to alter the territorial configuration of an AU member state and that any such declaration is null and void under international law. Attempts to change borders by force or illegal means contravene the Constitutive Act and set a dangerous precedent for peace and security throughout Africa.
The council called on all member states and international partners to reaffirm Somalia’s sovereignty and unity, reject all illegal actions that undermine international principles, and stand in solidarity to uphold African unity, international legality and regional stability. It commended the Federal Government of Somalia for its state‑building efforts and encouraged continued dialogue within Somalia as the only viable path toward a consensual solution to existing differences.
Furthermore, the council underscored the importance of devoting all efforts and resources to consolidating gains in the fight against the Al Shabaab terrorist group and its affiliates. It decided to remain actively seized of the matter, emphasizing the need for collective action to uphold the territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
The African Union’s stance reinforces the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states and serves as a reminder of the need for international cooperation and solidarity in maintaining peace and stability in the region. As the situation unfolds, the AU’s commitment to upholding international law and promoting regional stability will be closely watched.
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