The European Union is expected to formally announce the resumption of direct financial support to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in early 2026, marking a significant policy shift after nearly two years of suspended funding. Diplomatic discussions within EU institutions and consultations with international partners suggest that political consensus is gradually forming among member states to re-engage financially with the mission, which plays a central role in Somalia’s security and stabilization efforts.
Although the EU has consistently reiterated its political and strategic commitment to Somalia, the withdrawal of direct funding since 2024 placed considerable strain on AUSSOM’s operational capacity. The anticipated decision to restore support reflects growing recognition in Brussels that sustainable peace and security in Somalia require predictable and long-term financial backing, particularly as the country continues its transition toward greater self-reliance in security governance.
According to official’s familiar with the process, the precise scope of the renewed funding package is still under negotiation. Key details including the total amount, duration of support, and disbursement mechanisms are expected to be finalized once all 27 EU member states reach a unified agreement. The announcement is likely to follow internal budgetary approvals and coordination with the African Union and the United Nations to ensure alignment with broader international stabilization frameworks.
AUSSOM has faced mounting financial challenges throughout 2025 as a result of the funding gap. The mission, which succeeded the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), was designed to support Somali security forces, protect key infrastructure, and assist in counter-insurgency operations against extremist groups. However, without steady donor contributions, the mission has struggled to maintain troop allowances, logistical support, and operational readiness.
The funding shortfall was compounded by prolonged disagreements at the international level over the implementation of a United Nations assessed contributions model. This model, endorsed in principle under UN Security Council Resolution 2719, aimed to finance a significant portion of AUSSOM’s budget through mandatory contributions from UN member states. Initial projections suggested that assessed contributions would cover approximately 75 percent of the mission’s estimated five-year budget of more than $800 million.
Despite broad support from African and European stakeholders, the model faced resistance from some international actors, leading to delays in implementation. As a result, AUSSOM was forced to rely heavily on voluntary donor contributions, which proved insufficient to meet operational needs. This uncertainty limited long-term planning and raised concerns about the mission’s sustainability at a critical juncture in Somalia’s stabilisation process.
The EU’s expected return as a major financial contributor is therefore viewed as a stabilising development, both symbolically and practically. For years, the bloc was the largest single donor to African Union peace operations in Somalia, funding troop stipends and key mission costs through the European Peace Facility and its predecessor mechanisms. Renewed EU engagement would help restore confidence among other donors and could encourage additional international contributions.
Somali authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of continued international support during the country’s security transition. While progress has been made in building national security institutions, Somali forces continue to depend on AUSSOM for operational backing, training, and joint operations, particularly in areas where militant groups remain active.
Beyond security considerations, the EU’s funding decision carries broader geopolitical implications. The Horn of Africa remains a region of strategic importance, with instability in Somalia having potential spill-over effects on maritime security, regional trade routes, migration flows, and counter-terrorism efforts. European policymakers increasingly view sustained engagement in Somalia as an investment in regional and international security.
If confirmed, the resumption of EU funding in 2026 would signal a renewed commitment to multilateral peace support operations and reinforce cooperation between the European Union, the African Union, and the United Nations. While challenges remain including ensuring accountability, improving coordination, and supporting Somali-led solutions predictable financing is widely regarded as a prerequisite for the mission’s success.
As negotiations continue, stakeholders are cautiously optimistic that renewed EU support will provide AUSSOM with the financial stability needed to fulfil its mandate and support Somalia’s path toward lasting peace and institutional resilience.
