Mogadishu, SOMALIA – Somalia’s election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2025-2026 term marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to reassert its place in the international community and contribute to global peace and security. Securing 179 votes in the UN General Assembly, Somalia’s unopposed candidacy, endorsed by the African Union (AU), reflects growing confidence in the nation’s progress towards stability and its commitment to international cooperation.
Somalia’s election to the UNSC is a testament to the country’s resilience and the progress it has made in recent years, despite facing daunting challenges. The fact that Somalia was able to secure the AU’s endorsement and run unopposed for the non-permanent seat is a clear indication of the growing recognition of the country’s efforts to overcome its troubled past and contribute positively to regional and global affairs.
Moreover, Somalia’s election to the UNSC is a recognition of the country’s growing diplomatic clout and its commitment to international cooperation. In recent years, Somalia has actively engaged with regional and international partners to address issues such as security, development, and humanitarian assistance. The country recently joined the East African Community (EAC), demonstrating its willingness to work collaboratively with its neighbors to promote peace and stability in Eastern Africa.
Building on the Momentum of Progress
While Somalia’s election to the UNSC is a significant achievement, it is important to recognize that it is just one step in the country’s ongoing journey towards stability and prosperity. To fully capitalize on this opportunity and build on the momentum of progress, Somalia will need to continue to address the many challenges it faces, both domestically and in its relations with the international community.
On the domestic front, this will require sustained efforts to strengthen governance, promote economic development, and create opportunities for all Somalis. It will also require a continued commitment to inclusive politics and reconciliation, as well as efforts to address the underlying drivers of conflict and instability, such as poverty, inequality, and marginalization.
In terms of Somalia’s engagement with the international community, it will be important for the country to continue to build strong partnerships and alliances with key actors, both within the region and beyond. This will require a proactive and strategic approach to diplomacy, one that seeks to maximize Somalia’s influence and leverage while also promoting cooperation and mutual understanding.