Somalia officially assumes its non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2025-2026 term, marking its return to this critical global platform after 54 years. This milestone represents a significant achievement as the country continues its journey toward peace and stability.

Historically notable, Somalia joins the UNSC while hosting a UN mission and foreign peacekeepers, making it the first country to do so under such circumstances.

As a new member, Somalia joins Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, and Panama, sharing the Council’s rotating membership. Representing Africa, Somalia takes over from Mozambique, alongside Algeria and Sierra Leone, strengthening the continent’s voice on global security matters.

Somalia’s election to the UNSC on June 6, 2024, was seen as a milestone that highlighted the country’s progress in peacebuilding and governance after decades of conflict.

Permanent Representative of Somalia to the United Nations, Abukar Osman (Baale), expressed the country’s commitment to its new role:
“It is an honor to represent Somalia as we officially take our seat on the UN Security Council. We are ready to shoulder the responsibility of safeguarding global peace and security.”

Somalia assumes this role at a time when it faces significant domestic and regional challenges. Among these is the upcoming transition of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM) in January 2025. A critical hurdle in this transition is the lack of donor commitments to fully fund the new mission.

Membership in the UNSC provides Somalia a platform to contribute actively to global discussions on conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and international security. This role also bolsters its regional efforts, particularly in combating Al-Shabaab and securing maritime safety.

Somalia, alongside Algeria and Sierra Leone, is expected to amplify Africa’s voice within the Council, advocating for the continent’s priorities and addressing global challenges.

This pivotal moment offers Somalia the chance to solidify its place on the international stage, demonstrating its readiness to contribute to peace and stability worldwide.