A Somali Public Perspective on Gaps, Opportunities, and the Way Forward

Date: April 25, 2025

Executive Summary

On April 23, 2025, the European Union (EU) and the Federal Republic of Somalia reaffirmed their partnership during a political dialogue in Mogadishu, focusing on the EU–Somalia Joint Operational Roadmap. While the Roadmap outlines cooperation on inclusive politics, security, and socio-economic growth, critical shortcomings risk undermining its effectiveness and legitimacy among Somali citizens.

This white paper critically examines the Roadmap, incorporates Somali public perspectives, and offers recommendations to realign cooperation with Somalia’s evolving realities.

Introduction

The EU remains a vital partner to Somalia, supporting security reform, humanitarian aid, and state-building. Yet Somali citizens increasingly view international engagement as externally driven, lacking sensitivity to Somalia’s federal political dynamics and popular aspirations.

The Joint Operational Roadmap provides a strategic moment for reflection — but it risks entrenching existing frustrations if critical gaps remain unaddressed.

Critical Gaps Identified

1. Narrow Focus on Al-Shabaab

The exclusion of ISIS from the security agenda leaves Somalia vulnerable to emerging threats, particularly in the north.

2. Federalism Crisis Overlooked

The rift between Mogadishu and Federal Member States (e.g., Puntland, Jubaland) is ignored, undermining efforts at political inclusivity.

3. Politicization of Aid

The misuse of donor funds for political purposes remains a major concern among Somalis and is unaddressed in the Roadmap.

4. Neo-Colonial Perceptions of EU Missions

EU missions (e.g., EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, EUTM Somalia) are perceived as disconnected and unaccountable to the Somali public.

5. Lack of Specific Deliverables

The Roadmap is heavy on rhetoric but light on measurable, time-bound commitments.

Somali Public Perspective

Somalis demand ownership over their political and security future. They call for Somali-led initiatives, constitutional respect for federalism, transparency in aid, and reforms to international missions to focus on genuine capacity building.

“We are grateful for help, but we want help that leaves behind strong Somali hands, not foreign footprints.”

Recommendations

Expand the Security Agenda: Address ISIS threats alongside Al-Shabaab.

Engage Federal Member States: Strengthen inclusive, constitutional dialogues.

Ensure Aid Transparency: Create independent Somali–EU oversight mechanisms.

Reform EU Missions: Increase Somali leadership, disclose operations, define exit strategies.

Set Clear Deliverables: Attach timelines and evaluation metrics to all Roadmap goals.

Conclusion

The EU–Somalia partnership must move from symbolic affirmations to tangible results grounded in Somali ownership and transparency. Adjustments are urgently needed to achieve the Roadmap’s stated goals.

Prepared by:

Ismail Warsame / WDM
Mogadishu, April 2025