The United Kingdom has reiterated that it does not recognize Somaliland as an independent state, reaffirming its firm support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia during a United Nations Security Council meeting in New York on December 29–30, 2025. Addressing the Council, UK Ambassador and Chargé d’Affaires to the UN James Kariuki said Britain’s long-standing position remains unchanged, stressing that any alteration to Somaliland’s status can only occur through dialogue and mutual agreement between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, in line with the UN Charter.
The UK representative warned that actions undermining peace and security in the region risk deepening political divisions that could benefit Al-Shabaab and other illegal armed groups. He urged both the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland authorities to intensify dialogue, with support from regional organizations and the international community, to resolve differences and confront shared security threats.
London also highlighted its continued support for Somalia’s security transition. Ambassador Kariuki noted that the UK has contributed more than $30 million in 2025 to support stabilization efforts, including $22 million allocated to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). He welcomed the UN Security Council’s recent renewal of mandates supporting AUSSOM and sanctions aimed at weakening Al-Shabaab.
In addition, the UK welcomed the peaceful conduct of recent local government elections in Mogadishu, describing them as part of broader efforts to strengthen governance and democratic institutions. While Somaliland authorities have often viewed Britain as a key diplomatic partner, the statement underscored that the UK’s policy remains firmly rooted in Somalia’s unity and a negotiated solution achieved through dialogue.
