Dialogue platforms on (security) policy challenges in Somalia

This regular dialogue is intended to promote a forward-looking policy and advance peace building and reconciliation initiatives in the country, which has been ravaged by armed conflict. The participants actively absorbed the valuable insights and strategies discussed during the session, thus equipping themselves to be proponents of positive change in Somalia’s development.

The dialogue platforms, which MIND Somalia is now organising for the second year in a row in cooperation with the RP SIPODI East Africa, make a major contribution to the political debate between members of government, parliamentarians and experts from the Somali civil society.

All participants listened intently to all presentations, absorbing the knowledge and perspectives which are essential for the development of Somalia.

There were also many opportunities for networking on the fringes of the event.

These dialogue platforms aim at providing an opportunity for government officials, experts, researchers, as well as the interested public to discuss pressing political issues for Somalia and debate potential solutions. Through offering a space to engage in constructive dialogue, these events shall lead to initiatives and policies advancing peacebuilding and reconciliation.

The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung continued the cooperation with the Management Institute for National Development which works to promote democratic governance and strengthen the capacity of Somali institutions through a variety of training programmes and policy guidance. The organisation focuses furthermore on key issues such as addressing the impacts of climate change, advancing leadership and governance skills, and deepening the understanding of conflict drivers.

On 7th July 2024, the first discussion round on “Somalia's Strategic Needs as ATMIS Prepares to Withdraw” took place in cooperation between KAS and MIND.  It was noted that Somalia faces both strategic opportunities and challenges with the imminent withdrawal of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and that strengthening the national security apparatus and ensuring stability in liberated areas are critical to the country's future. In addition, the promotion of partnerships with regional and international allies was emphasised, as these are essential to maintain the progress made and counter the resurgence of militant groups.

“Somalia’s Current Political and Security Dynamics: Possibility of Direct Elections, Security Dynamics, Trends and Threats” featured as the second event of this series on 16th October 2024. The discussion highlighted that in the recent history of Somalia, there has not been an election conducted under a fully democratic electoral process. The panellists explored the key obstacles facing Somalia's post-conflict federalisation and democratisation process and the ongoing efforts to harmonise elections timelines between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and the Federal Member States (FMS) as well as within the different FMS.

The third discussion happened on 23rd November 2024 and covered the topic, “The Role of Reconciliation and Dialogue for Somalia’s Conflict Prevention and Transformation: What are the Challenges Influencing Peaceful & Prosperous Somalia?’’”. The speakers highlighted the critical importance of inclusive dialogue and genuine reconciliation for lasting peace in Somalia. They also emphasised the need to address underlying causes of conflict, including clan tensions, resource disputes, and political fragmentation, as essential steps toward a resilient and peaceful Somalia. The panellists further discussed key challenges, such as establishing effective governance, strengthening institutions, and managing external influences that often deepen internal divisions.

The concept of these dialogue platforms is considered an important contribution to promote a constructive dialogue with numerous relevant actors including different parts of Somali civil society, political actors and scientists.