Balqiis Insights convened the seventh session of its 2026 Youth Dialogue Series under the theme “The Future After AUSSOM: Security Transition, Political Consensus and the Future of Somalia” to examine one of the most critical policy questions facing Somalia today: how the country can prepare for a managed security transition while strengthening national ownership and long-term stability. The dialogue provided a platform for young Somalis, researchers, and policy actors to reflect on the political and institutional choices that will shape Somalia’s future security landscape.
The discussion took place at a critical moment as Somalia approaches the expiry of the current African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) authorization on 31 December 2026. While Somali security forces have continued to expand their capabilities and assume greater responsibilities, the transition remains connected to essential international support, including logistics, medical evacuation, engineering, communications, and financial assistance. Balqiis Insights’ recent policy paper, “No Time to Drift: Somalia and the Deadline for a Managed Security Transition,” highlights that a successful transition requires political decisions, security reforms, institutional preparedness, and sustainable financing to move together.
Participants explored the conditions necessary for a sustainable security transition, including the readiness of Somali security institutions, the importance of political consensus between the Federal Government and Federal Member States, and the future role of international partnerships. The discussion also examined how political dynamics, governance challenges, and institutional capacity will influence Somalia’s ability to manage the transition while protecting the security gains achieved over the past decade.
The session highlighted the importance of inclusive and evidence-based dialogue in shaping Somalia’s peace, security, and governance priorities. Through the Youth Dialogue Series, Balqiis Insights continues to create spaces where young people, researchers, civil society actors, and policy institutions can contribute perspectives on national issues and support discussions that promote a more sustainable and nationally owned future for Somalia.
