Somalia faces test of sustaining state-building gains as UN political mission closes

Nairobi, Kenya, November 2 — Somalia finds itself at a critical juncture as it transitions away from the United Nations' political mission, which has been active in the country for over three decades. The UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) concluded its operations on October 31, transitioning responsibilities to national institutions and other UN agencies, following a two-year process agreed upon with the Somali government and approved by the UN Security Council.

In a statement, UNTMIS Officer-in-Charge and UN Deputy Special Representative for Somalia Raisedon Zenenga emphasized that the closure of the mission represented a new phase in the relationship between Somalia and the United Nations, rather than the end of international support. Zenenga stated, "Today is not an end to the partnership between the United Nations and Somalia—rather, it marks the conclusion of one chapter and the beginning of another."

The transition process, outlined in UN Security Council resolutions 2753 (2024) and 2809 (2025), aimed to incrementally shift the mission's responsibilities to Somali institutions and the broader UN Country Team. These responsibilities encompassed a wide range of areas, including governance, constitutional review, reconciliation, electoral support, human rights, and the rule of law.

The UN's political engagement with Somalia dates back to 1995 with the establishment of the UN Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS), which evolved into UNSOM in 2013.

While acknowledging significant progress made in rebuilding state institutions, expanding political inclusion, and developing governance structures, Zenenga highlighted that challenges remain. Security concerns, particularly the threat posed by Al-Shabaab, continue to pose significant obstacles to stability and state-building efforts.

The closure of UNTMIS does not signify the withdrawal of the United Nations from Somalia. UN agencies, funds, and programmes will continue to support the country through various humanitarian, development, and human rights programs, collaborating with national authorities, civil society, and the private sector. UN Resident Coordinator for Somalia George Conway affirmed the UN's ongoing commitment to Somalia, stating, "The United Nations remains a committed partner."