A United Nations official has urgently called for increased global support to address the escalating humanitarian crisis and persistent terrorist threats in Somalia. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Monday, James Swan, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia and acting special representative of the secretary-general for Somalia, highlighted the critical need for funding and assistance.
“For its part, Al-Shabaab remains determined to continue terrorist attacks with little regard for the loss of civilian life,” Swan stated. “I condemn these terrorist attacks and extend my condolences to the families of those killed.”
Swan emphasized that the Somali government is prioritizing security and actively combating Al-Shabaab fighters on multiple fronts. Despite these efforts, the challenges remain immense, with over 3.8 million people displaced due to extreme weather, insecurity, and disease outbreaks.
“At the current rate, the impact of climate change is outpacing our ability to support adaptation and humanitarian response,” he warned. Swan stressed that investments are needed to reinforce the “longer-term resilience” of communities, infrastructure, and the economy.
The UN’s 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for Somalia requires $1.6 billion but is currently only 24 percent funded. Swan urged international partners to provide the necessary funding to meet these urgent needs.
Addressing regional tensions, Swan also encouraged Somalia and Ethiopia to resolve their differences peacefully. “I encourage Somalia and Ethiopia to resolve this matter peacefully in accordance with these principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity as enshrined in the UN Charter and international law,” he added.
The dire situation in Somalia underscores the importance of global solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises exacerbated by terrorism and climate change.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
