US abstains on Somalia peacekeeping resolution citing budgetary concerns
By Mwangi Maina |
US expressed reservations about the proposed budgetary framework for transitioning from AMISOM to ATMIS under Resolution 2719.
The United States has explained its decision to abstain from voting on a United Nations Security Council resolution on the transition of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, citing concerns over budgetary provisions and the application of previous agreements.
In a statement issued on Friday by their mission in New York, the US noted its longstanding commitment to Somalia and the African Union's peace support operations.
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However, it expressed reservations about the proposed budgetary framework for transitioning from the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) under Resolution 2719.
"The United States remains committed to supporting and strengthening African Union peace support operations," the statement affirmed.
It added that US bilateral assistance to Somalia totals over $1.2 billion annually, funding efforts to enhance security, economic growth, and stability.
As the largest financial contributor to UN peacekeeping globally, the US highlighted its extensive financial contributions to African Union missions in Somalia.
"Since the inception of AU peace support operations in Somalia with AMISOM, [we have provided] one-quarter of the annual budget for the UN Support and Stabilisation Office in Somalia, providing critical, life-saving logistical support," the statement noted.
Deviations from resolution
However, the US expressed concern over what it described as deviations from Resolution 2719's financial framework.
"It is clear the Council intended for 2719 to apply to logistical support and personnel under a 'one mission, one budget' model," the US stated.
"Despite this, the proposed 'hybrid' model in today's text implies that the UN would continue to fully fund UNSOS through UN assessed contributions... effectively funding more than 90 per cent of the aggregate mission cost."
The US warned that such an arrangement could undermine the credibility of the agreed model for funding African Union peace support operations.
"We cannot... vote in favour of a resolution that uses this new model without referencing the intent to transition to a consolidated budget – as was the case in Resolution 2719 and in keeping with the standard and best practice in peacekeeping," it stated.
Despite abstaining, the US reiterated its support for Somalia and the African Union's mission.
"The United States will remain a steadfast proponent of the African Union's peace support operations, and our partner Somalia," it said.
The statement emphasised the US's dedication to strengthening Resolution 2719 and assisting Somalia in combating threats to its security and stability.
The resolution was approved by 14 of the UN Security Council's 15 member states, with the United States abstaining due to concerns over funding.
It facilitates the transition from the ATMIS, whose mandate expires on December 31, to AUSSOM.
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