(27-06-23) NEW YORK — The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote today, Tuesday, on a draft resolution proposed by the UK regarding the African Union (AU) Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The resolution suggests a six-month extension to allow the continued deployment of AU personnel in Somalia.
The A3 members (Gabon, Ghana, and Mozambique) initially proposed changes to the draft, emphasising the AU’s need for additional preparation time for the mission’s drawdown. The UK offered a compromise, proposing a six-month extension which was accepted by Council members.
The revised draft resolution authorises ATMIS to maintain up to 17,626 uniformed personnel until 30 September, reducing to 14,626 personnel from 1 October 2023 to 31 December. Additionally, support packages from the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) will be extended to the Somali security forces involved in joint operations with ATMIS.
However, the A3 voiced concerns over the “sector-by-sector” approach for the phased drawdown of its personnel, and a consensus was reached to leave this decision to the mission’s discretion.
The resolution also emphasises the necessity for the Somali government to ensure national security, reiterates the need for future funding for ATMIS, and addresses the nation’s call for lifting the arms embargo under the 751 Al-Shabaab sanctions regime. As discussions continue, an update from the Secretary-General on Somalia’s progress is expected by 15 September.
