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UN Security Council convenes emergency meeting on Somalia-Ethiopia crisis
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    Monday January 29, 2024

     

    Mogadishu (HOL) - The United Nations Security Council is scheduled for urgent consultations to address the intensifying dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia. This meeting, set under the "Peace and Security in Africa" agenda, follows Somalia's request, citing concerns over Ethiopian actions in the Horn of Africa.

    The urgent session, prompted by Somalia's request under Article 35 of the UN Charter, focuses on the January 1st Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Somalia's Acting Foreign Minister, Ali Omar, has described the MoU as a violation of Somalia's constitution, stating, "The MoU was entered into without the consent or endorsement of the Federal Government of Somalia and effectively violates the country's constitution." The situation has drawn significant attention, with international bodies voicing concerns over potential regional destabilization.

    Somalia asserts that Ethiopia's 50-year lease of sea access in exchange for recognizing the Republic of Somaliland constitutes an "unlawful transgression" of its sovereignty. 

    The meeting aims to address the MoU's broader political and security implications. The League of Arab States (LAS) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have condemned the agreement, with the LAS stating that such actions "violate international law and jeopardize the overall territorial integrity of the Somali state." Meanwhile, Ethiopia maintains its stance as outlined in a January 26th letter to the Council, arguing that the MoU "paves the way for Ethiopia to secure access to a sea outlet based on commercial bases and mutually acceptable terms in line with international norms."

    The Security Council's discussions are expected to center on fostering dialogue and de-escalating tensions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in a phone call with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, underscored this approach, expressing hope that "all parties will engage in a peaceful and constructive dialogue and refrain from any actions that could further escalate the situation." 
     

     





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