UK Urges Somalia’s Leaders to Turn Agreements into Concrete Results: UK Statement at the UN Security Council

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<p>Thank you, Mr. President.</p>

<p>First and foremost, the United Kingdom expresses significant concern regarding the situation in Las Anod. Together with our partners, we have advocated for ceasefire discussions among the involved parties and issued statements urging restraint from all sides, fostering dialogue, protecting civilians, and ensuring unrestricted humanitarian access. We encourage all Council members to do the same.</p>

<p>Mr. President, the challenges in Las Anod underscore the necessity of supporting Somalia in addressing essential issues of power and resource distribution, including the finalization of the constitution. These elements are crucial for sustainable state-building and security.</p>

<p>President Hassan Sheikh has shown dedication through the National Consultative Councils, convening leaders from federal member states (FMS) to tackle these pressing matters. We should promote and back Somalia’s leadership in converting agreements into tangible results and securing gradual progress. This will necessitate thorough technical preparation prior to meetings and consultation frameworks afterward to create reliable governance models that are sustainable. Such initiatives must also include the full, equal, and meaningful engagement of women to ensure their inclusion in future political frameworks. It is vital for all FMS leaders to participate constructively.</p>

<p>Secondly, Mr. President, as highlighted, the humanitarian crisis is deeply rooted and worsening. The fact that we prevented famine in 2022 should not lead us to become complacent. With drought conditions expected to persist in 2023 and over 227,000 individuals displaced in just January, it is imperative that we collaborate to provide life-saving assistance, ease access restrictions, and guarantee that aid reaches those most in need.</p>

<p>Women and girls account for 80% of those displaced by drought and are particularly susceptible to sexual violence. The UK’s collaborative programme with UNFPA addresses incidents of gender-based violence among newly displaced populations, aiding up to 34,800 women.</p>

<p>In conclusion, Mr. President, we commend the strides made by Somali security forces in their efforts against al-Shabaab since President Hassan Sheikh took office. There is indeed reason for optimism in the coming months. We encourage the UN to establish an effective ATMIS benchmark assessment process and look forward to revisiting this topic in March ahead of our discussions in June.</p>

<p>Thank you.</p>
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