In a significant diplomatic milestone, Somalia has been elected as a member of the United Nations Security Council for a two-year term beginning in 2025.
This marks the first time in more than five decades that Somalia will sit on the influential 15-member council.
Local media reported on Sunday that Somalia, situated in the Horn of Africa, was among five nations that secured the winning votes, alongside Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, and Panama.
Abdiqafar Abdi Wardhere, a Somali analyst based in Virginia, highlighted the symbolic and powerful diplomatic position this represents for Somalia.
He noted that this election will enable Somalia to have a vote on decisions concerning global conflicts, enhancing its international presence and influence.
In his announcement of the election results, UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis stated, “In a secret ballot, the elected countries received the required two-thirds majority of the member states present and voting in the 193-member General Assembly.”
Following the announcement, the UN Mission in Somalia congratulated the Somali government and its people on their election to the Security Council for the 2025-2026 term.
James Swan, the Acting Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, praised Somalia’s progress over the past three decades toward peace, prosperity, and security, stating that the election to the Security Council is a recognition of this commendable advancement.
This election to the Security Council represents a historic opportunity for Somalia to actively participate in shaping international policy and addressing critical global issues, reflecting its journey toward stability and international engagement.
