How Was the Somali Civil War Resolved?

Discover how the Somali civil war was resolved through international involvement, diplomatic efforts, and reconciliation, paving the way for peace and stability in Somalia.

How Was the Somali Civil War Resolved?

The Somali Civil War, which began in the late 1980s, has not been fully resolved but has seen significant changes over the years, transitioning through various phases and involving numerous peace efforts, international interventions, and internal political developments.

1. Early 1990s – UN Intervention: In the early 1990s, following the collapse of the Siad Barre regime, the United Nations intervened with UNOSOM I and II missions to provide humanitarian aid and restore order. However, these missions faced significant challenges, including the infamous “Black Hawk Down” incident in 1993, leading to a reduction in direct foreign military involvement.
2. Formation of Transitional National Governments: From the late 1990s onwards, several attempts were made to form transitional national governments. The Transitional National Government (TNG) was established in 2000, followed by the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) in 2004, which was recognized internationally. These governments, however, controlled limited territories and faced opposition from various factions.
3. Islamic Courts Union (ICU) and Ethiopian Intervention: In 2006, the Islamic Courts Union (ICU) seized control of Mogadishu and much of southern Somalia, bringing a degree of stability but also raising fears of an emerging Islamic state. Later that year, Ethiopia intervened militarily to support the TFG against the ICU, leading to a two-year occupation that ended in 2009.
4. African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM): In 2007, the African Union deployed the AMISOM peacekeeping mission to Somalia to support the TFG and provide security against insurgent groups, including Al-Shabaab, an extremist group that emerged from the ICU.
5. Federal Government of Somalia: In 2012, a new provisional constitution was adopted, and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) was established, marking the end of the transitional period. This government has been recognized internationally and has made gradual progress in stabilizing parts of the country, though challenges remain.
6. Ongoing Efforts and Challenges: Despite these developments, Somalia continues to face significant challenges, including ongoing attacks by Al-Shabaab, political fragmentation, and inter-clan conflicts. International support through AMISOM (now transitioning to ATMIS – African Transition Mission in Somalia) and other partners continues, focusing on building the capacity of Somali security forces, promoting political dialogue, and fostering economic development.

The resolution of the Somali Civil War is thus an ongoing process, characterized by gradual progress in governance, security, and reconstruction, amidst persistent challenges.