Various members of the international community have expressed deep concern over the current instability and escalating political tensions in Somalia in a joint statement released today. Envoys and representatives from the United Nations, the European Union, and several European nations have strongly urged Somali political leaders to return to the negotiating table immediately and swiftly establish a clear election roadmap for the country.
According to the joint statement issued in Mogadishu, dialogue among all parties is an irreplaceable solution to building lasting peace and a democratic system in the country. Describing the current situation as a “delicate moment” requiring great care, the statement urged all Somali political elites and leaders to prioritize national interests over factional and personal gains.
In particular, the joint statement emphasized that reaching a swift and inclusive consensus regarding the electoral process is vital to fulfilling the aspirations and preserving the peace of the Somali people. The international community expressed its full readiness to support and provide the necessary assistance for Somali-led and Somali-owned peace and political talks, should it be requested.
Taking into account the current state of the nation, the signatories strongly urged all sides to refrain from any form of provocation or rigid stances that could worsen the situation and lead to outright conflict. Diplomats note that there is a significant risk that the political and security gains achieved in Somalia over recent years could be reversed due to the current deadlock.
The list of international partners backing this urgent call is extensive, including the governments of Austria, Belgium, the European Union (EU) Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
In addition to these nations, the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS)—established by the UN Security Council under resolution 2753 on October 30, 2024—is a key signatory and partner of the statement. Because this mission provides direct support to Somalia’s political transition, rule of law, and the construction of democratic institutions, it is deeply concerned by the current electoral impasse.
Meanwhile, although the Somali government and people have recently celebrated various international events and religious holidays in peace (including Eid al-Fitr and the Holy Month of Ramadan), the internal political pressure tied to delayed elections and disagreements with regional administrations remains a major challenge for the country. Issues regarding human rights advocates and gender gaps also remain critical matters intertwined with this political instability.
