UN Ends Three Decades of Political Mission in Somalia

The closure of the U.N. Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) follows a two-year transition agreed with the federal government. Its responsibilities have been transferred to Somali institutions and U.N. agencies. The mission's roots dates back to 1995, when the U.N. established its Political Office for Somalia. It was replaced by the U.N. Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) in 2013 before entering its final transition phase as UNTMIS in 2024. "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," said Raisedon Zenenga, the U.N. secretary-general's deputy special representative for Somalia. The U.N. missions supported Somalia through decades of conflict and political transition, working on reconciliation, constitutional reform, elections, governance and human rights. The African Union also played a key role in supporting security operations and efforts to strengthen state authority. Despite progress in rebuilding national institutions, Somalia continues to face security threats from al-Shabab, political tensions and humanitarian challenges linked to droughts and floods. The Security Council approved the transition from UNSOM to UNTMIS in 2024 through Resolution 2753, establishing a two-year process to transfer responsibilities and strengthen national ownership. U.N. officials stressed that the mission's closure does not signal an end to international support. "The United Nations remains a committed partner to Somalia through its resident agencies and broader country presence," said George Conway, the U.N. resident coordinator in Somalia. U.N. agencies will continue working with Somali authorities and civil society on development, humanitarian and human rights programmes. Zenenga said Somalia had made significant progress in building federal institutions and advancing political inclusion, but acknowledged that major challenges remain and continued international support will be important. The closure marks a shift in the U.N.'s role in Somalia, with greater responsibility now resting on national institutions to sustain political progress and address the country's security and governance challenges.