Regional

EU extends mandates for security operations in Somalia

The European Union announced the extension of its security and defence missions in Somalia until February 28, 2027.

By Abdirahman Khalif | Monday, December 16, 2024

The decision follows a strategic review of the EU's engagement in Somalia and the Horn of Africa, aiming to address evolving security challenges and enhance its role in maritime security.

The European Union on Monday announced the extension of its security and defence missions in Somalia until February 28, 2027.

This includes the EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA, the EU Training Mission in Somalia (EUTM Somalia), and the EU Capacity Building Mission (EUCAP Somalia).

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The decision follows a strategic review of the EU's engagement in Somalia and the Horn of Africa, aiming to address evolving security challenges and enhance its role in maritime security.

The extension builds on the EU Council's earlier decision on December 5, 2023, to renew the mandate of EUCAP Somalia until the same date.

EUCAP Somalia focuses on developing the capabilities of Somali security institutions, providing strategic advice, mentoring, and training. The combined extension reflects the EU's commitment to strengthening Somalia's security forces and ensuring stability in the Horn of Africa.

EUTM Somalia will continue its efforts to support the development of Somali security forces. The mission aims to prepare Somali institutions to take responsibility for the country's security in the future, in alignment with the Joint EU-Somalia Roadmap.

"With the renewed mandates, the EU will help build capable, sustainable, and accountable Somali security institutions," the EU Council stated.

Alongside strategic advice and training, the EU will supply equipment through the European Peace Facility to enhance the sustainability of Somali security forces.

The mandate for Operation ATALANTA has been updated to further maritime security efforts in the region. These efforts include combating piracy, reducing illicit trafficking, and supporting a broader maritime security framework.

The operation will now cover areas off the Somali coast, the Gulf of Aden, the West Indian Ocean, and parts of the Red Sea.

"With the new mandate, Operation ATALANTA will enhance its role in maritime security off the coast of Somalia and contribute to building a wider regional maritime security architecture," the EU stated.

The operation will also strengthen synergies with Operation ASPIDES, which protects merchant shipping in the Red Sea.

This collaboration according to the EU aims to improve operational efficiency and regional coordination. Additionally, the Maritime Security Center (MSC) Horn of Africa, which supports both operations, has been renamed MSC Indian Ocean to reflect its expanded role.

Its mandate has also been reinforced to coordinate efforts and improve maritime security across the region.

The EU missions and operations will also focus on strengthening maritime security capabilities in the wider region. This includes capacity-building efforts for neighbouring states, such as Djibouti, within the scope of their available resources and expertise.

"By supporting the capacity-building efforts of regional maritime security forces, the EU aims to enhance security not only in Somalia but across the region," the Council added.

The goal is to create a regional maritime security framework that addresses shared challenges, such as piracy and illicit trafficking while promoting stability across the Indian Ocean and the Horn of Africa.

The EU in its statement emphasised its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and human rights in all its activities.

"All actions under these missions will pay particular attention to preventing gender-based violence, protecting children in armed conflict, and promoting the agenda of women, peace, and security," the Council confirmed.

The missions will also integrate efforts to address the intersection of climate, security, and defence, reflecting the EU's broader policy priorities.

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