AU, EU warn Somalia’s security gains at risk over AUSSOM funding

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The African Union and European Union warned Friday that financial and operational challenges facing their mission in Somalia could jeopardize security gains.

The warning comes as Somalia gradually assumes greater responsibility for its security, with international support remaining critical to operations against al-Shabab.

In a joint communiqué issued after their 17th annual consultative meeting in Addis Ababa, the organizations called for predictable and sustainable financing for AUSSOM.

They also urged a Somali-led assessment of the anticipated drawdown of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia and its potential impact on security operations.

The two organizations praised Somalia’s federal government and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia for progress in fighting al-Shabab.

They also commended countries contributing troops and police personnel, welcomed additional deployments through bilateral arrangements and paid tribute to personnel killed during operations.

But they expressed deep concern over the mission’s financial and operational difficulties, warning that the challenges could affect ongoing operations and undermine existing security gains.

The organizations called on international partners to provide adequate, predictable and sustainable funding for African Union-led peace support operations, including through United Nations-assessed contributions.

They cited U.N. Security Council Resolution 2719, the African Union Peace Fund and contributions from international partners as potential mechanisms for financing the operations.

The concerns highlight the importance of sustained international support as Somalia works to strengthen its security forces and gradually take over responsibilities from foreign troops.

The anticipated reduction in U.N. logistical support adds another challenge for a mission already facing financial and operational constraints, making continued international assistance particularly important.

The organizations reaffirmed their commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and political independence, while supporting continued African Union engagement in the country.