UN Security Council Urges Somalia to Curb Terrorist Financing Risks

New York, NY - UN Security Council Takes Action on Somalia

The United Nations Security Council has extended the mandate of its Panel of Experts on Somalia until December 15, 2021, while also renewing the partial lifting of the arms embargo on the country’s security forces. However, the council has urged the Somali government to take swift action to curb terrorist financing and illicit exports.

Key Decisions Made by the UN Security Council

• Extended the mandate of its Panel of Experts on Somalia until December 15, 2021
• Renewed the partial lifting of the arms embargo on the country’s security forces
• Called on the Somali government to:
  • Speed up implementation of its national security architecture
  • Update and implement the Somalia Transitional Plan to ensure the safe management, storage, and security of its stockpiles of weapons, ammunition, and other military equipment

Concerns Over Al-Shabaab’s Financing Activities

The council expressed concern over Al-Shabaab’s ability to generate revenue and launder resources. It called on the Somali government to work with financial authorities, private sector institutions, and the international community to mitigate money-laundering and terrorist financing risks.

International Community Takes Action Against Illicit Exports

• Condemned exports of charcoal from Somalia, which are banned from leaving the country
• Urged maritime forces in the region to disrupt illicit flows that may finance terrorist activities
• Encouraged States to prevent the direct or indirect sale or transfer of items that could be used in manufacturing improvised explosive devices

Resolution Adopted with a Recorded Vote

The resolution was adopted by a recorded vote of 13 in favor, with none against and two abstentions from China and Russia. Speaking after the adoption, the Chinese delegate noted that Somalia’s elections are proceeding steadily but that the security situation remains volatile and uncertain.

Security Situation Remains Volatile

China’s delegate emphasized that the draft resolution fails to take on board its proposal to lift the arms embargo on Somalia as well as its inclusion of Djibouti and Eritrea. Similarly, the Russian Federation’s delegate abstained from the vote, citing concerns over the selective approach in managing illegal trade.

However, other council members strongly supported new measures to curb Al-Shabaab’s finances. The United Kingdom’s representative lauded Somalia’s efforts to resolve issues related to the resolution, while the United States welcomed the renewed sanctions and emphasized the need to combat Al-Shabaab’s exploitation of Somalia’s financial system.

The Somali delegate expressed regret that important issues were left out of the draft, emphasizing his country’s opposition to continued sanctions. He urged the international community to address root causes as well as assist with security and institution-building.