Council

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…

The Unfolding Drama at the UN: A Show of Solidarity for Ukraine In a striking demonstration of unity, a notable assembly of dignitaries recently made a powerful statement by walking out of a session at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva. Their departure coincided with the somber anniversary of three years since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This act was not merely symbolic; it underscored a commitment to stand firmly with those facing oppression and invasion.…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant leap forward, Somalia has wiped clean a slate of debts stretching back 35 years with the United Nations, as announced by the government on a noteworthy Monday. The air in Mogadishu hummed with a sense of triumph, and rightly so. Foremost in delivering this groundbreaking news was Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi. In conversation with the Somali National News Agency, Fiqi couldn't hide his pride, reflecting the sentiment of a nation that has long awaited such a moment. "This…

In an unexpected turn, Ethiopia and Somalia managed to mend their diplomatic rift this January by signing an agreement that grants Addis Ababa access to port facilities in Somalia. But Ethiopia isn't the only player on the field. Last year, Mogadishu struck a deal with Turkey, where Ankara agreed to fortify Somalia's maritime security via a mix of capacity building, training, and collaborative patrols. The fruits of these agreements could be bountiful, potentially presenting economic and investment avenues while uplifting…

Mogadishu (AX) — Like characters in the dynamic theater of geopolitics, nations vie for influence on the African stage, painting the canvas of history with choices and alliances. Recently, Ethiopia emerged as a pivotal protagonist by securing a seat on the African Union's Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) for a three-year tenure. But how did this happen? And what significance does this hold for the continent? Ethiopia's triumph at the 46th Executive Council meeting, held under the imposing shadows of Addis Ababa's…

In a kaleidoscope of global diplomacy, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Badr Abdelatty navigated the corridors of power as he conferred with European Council President Antonio Costa in the cosmopolitan heart of Europe, Brussels. They engaged in a tête-à-tête underscoring the instrumental role President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi has played in sculpting the Gaza ceasefire while orchestrating the symphony of peace and stability across the Middle East. Adams' son was quick to recognize Egypt as an indispensable confidant in…

As the curtain drew on the last quarter of the year, the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) found itself in the spotlight—quite literally. The organization capped off its busy season with an extraordinary invitation from the White House, asking CCA to join President Biden's official delegation to Angola, his final international sojourn as President. Florie Liser, the President and CEO of CCA, couldn't hide her enthusiasm as she shared this momentous update with members. "I was thrilled to see both Presidents dive into…

Somalia has announced its candidacy for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) for the 2025–2028 terms. In a press release issued over the weekend, Somalia outlined key reasons for its candidacy, emphasising its ”leadership in regional and continental priorities.” Somalia stressed the need for “fair representation,” noting its absence from the AU PSC since its creation in 2004. The country argued that its “inclusion is vital for ensuring equitable representation within the organisation.…

Horn of Africa's own Mogadishu—Somalia just tossed its hat into the ring for a seat on the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC), hoping to snag a spot for the 2025–2028 term. It's an ambitious endeavor to up its game in the arena of peace and stability across the continent.The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement this past Thursday, pointed out that since the inception of the AU PSC back in 2004, Somalia hasn't had the chance to represent. The ministry emphasized their candidacy isn't just a matter…

On October 31, Mali's transitional national council approved a law that criminalizes homosexuality, a move that casts a long shadow over the nation’s LGBTQI+ community. This newly minted legislation heightens the dangers of stigma, discrimination, and violence against individuals identifying as part of this community across Mali. This isn't just a recent shift; Mali's human rights landscape has dramatically declined since January. The government has rolled out harsh measures targeting opposition groups, mainstream media,…