Somalia’s election to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) offers unparalleled insights into peacebuilding and global challenges
There’s an air of transformation hanging over Somalia, a land once drowning in the murk of conflict and now finding its place on the global stage. Elected to serve as a non-permanent member on the UNSC as of January 1, 2025, Somalia takes its seat among nations like Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, and Panama. This isn’t just a diplomatic rite of passage; it’s a chance for Somalia to share its hard-earned wisdom about navigating through turmoil towards a future of peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Despite the grandeur often associated with the Security Council’s permanent five members—U.S., China, the U.K., France, and Russia—and their much-publicized veto power, the non-permanent members, including Somalia, aim to bring a fresh voice from their regions and beyond. They act as essential conduits in advancing the UN’s core objectives. Here, let us linger for a moment and ask ourselves: In an ever-connected world, is it time to reevaluate the Security Council’s structure, especially considering the unequal power dynamics that currently exist?
Such musings inevitably lead to a broader debate. If the UN truly wishes to uphold its founding democratic principles, should it not embrace reform, ensuring each nation enjoys an equal voice? Though some may view non-permanent seats as mere symbols of inclusivity, they provide a platform previously denied to nations during and before the post-World War II era—a time when much of the UN roster was still under colonial rule or synonymous with the Soviet bloc.
Being witness to some media skepticism surrounding Somalia’s election to the council was curious, to say the least. Having followed the Somali government’s tenacious campaign for a seat, I anticipated broad approval rather than doubt. Critics, focusing narrowly, dismissed Somalia’s inclusion as diminishing the council’s gravitas. Is this cynicism rooted in ignorance? Perhaps it’s time to eviscerate such myths and reflect on how Somalia, against the odds, has emerged from chaos, redefining its global identity.
Now, to ask what Somalia brings to this elite forum is to open a rich narrative. For decades, the Security Council has played a vital role during Somalia’s turbulent periods. Ironically, as the country commences its council membership, the UN simultaneously lifted a protracted arms embargo. History, it seems, has brought Somalia full circle. This isn’t just a nominal inclusion; it’s a critical opportunity. Somalia, once on the sidelines, now has a prime seat at a table that has repeatedly deliberated its destiny.
Somalia’s narrative is more than mere triumph over adversity; it’s a testament of resilience. As it educates fellow council members, Somalia stands ready to share vital lessons about nation-building, confronting terrorism, orchestrating humanitarian and multilateral efforts, and distinguishing what aids—or fails—in post-conflict environments. Additionally, it amplifies the voices of similarly challenged nations, sharing its wealth of experience with those who often go unheard.
Consider Somalia’s impressive navigation through the Highly Indebted Poor Countries Initiative, achieving substantial economic reform and debt relief by December 2023. This endeavor isn’t just about adhering to prescribed economic doctrines; it’s about showcasing how political resolve and grassroots support can collaboratively conquer debt, paving way for development. How many times can we afford to overlook such successful narratives in our global discourse on economic growth?
The UN faces mounting challenges, from accelerating climate crises to rising global debt that suffocates development. Somalia, with its interlinked stories of hardship and hope, uniquely positions itself to contribute to these global discussions. The international community stands at a crossroads. Somalia’s experience and insight offer a promising avenue for collective progress and innovation in tackling these robust issues.
Ultimately, Somalia joins the UNSC through fairness and due diligence, much like its counterparts. It’s not just in the council to fill a seat; it’s there to impart the knowledge garnered from its journey—a journey that began with hope and continues in advocacy for its people amidst a world fraught with division and external shocks.
About the author: Liban Obsiye serves as the Head of the Strategic Economic Unit within the Somali Ministry of Finance
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
