The United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution to extend the authorization for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) for an additional six months. The extension will be in effect until December 31, 2023. This decision comes as a result of the progress made by ATMIS in combating militants and maintaining peace in the region.
ATMIS was created in April 2022 as a replacement for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Led by the African Union (AU), ATMIS has a reinforced mandate to combat militants in Somalia. The mission is set to gradually transfer its activities to Somali forces by the end of 2024.
The withdrawal of ATMIS troops has already begun, with 2,000 soldiers being withdrawn by the end of June. Deputy Somali Ambassador Mohamed Rabi Yusuf confirmed that the withdrawal is nearing completion and the necessary preparations are being made for the next phase, which involves the withdrawal of an additional 3,000 troops by September.
The resolution adopted by the Security Council also outlines a new ceiling of 14,626 troops from October 1 to December 31. However, the Council remains open to reviewing these figures based on a technical assessment provided by Somalia and the AU by September 15. This assessment will evaluate the first phase of the drawdown and provide a clear plan and timetable for the remainder of the withdrawal.
While the resolution acknowledges the progress made by Somalia against the Shebab, a group affiliated with al-Qaeda, it expresses great concern about the ongoing threat to peace posed by the group. Deputy Russian Ambassador Anna Evstigneeva emphasized the need to carefully consider the withdrawal of the African mission to avoid creating a security vacuum in Somalia.
In light of the progress made, Somalia has once again called for the lifting of the partial UN arms embargo. The Somali government argues that the embargo hinders their ability to provide adequate resources to counter the ever-present threat of the Shebab. However, the Security Council renewed the arms embargo in November, which has been in place since 1992. While weapons intended for the development of Somali security forces are exempt from the embargo, they still require notification to the UN committee responsible for these sanctions.
The extension of the authorization for ATMIS reflects the international community’s commitment to supporting Somalia in its quest for lasting peace and security. The Mission’s continued presence and support will be crucial in ensuring the successful transfer of responsibilities to Somali forces while maintaining stability in the region.
