Yesterday the UN Security Council missed a self-imposed deadline to offer the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) a financial lifeline from the UN budget.
Although Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Middle Eastern countries have shown interest in the new mission, none appear willing to fill such a large financial gap.
The EU has floated EUR 60 million in new funding, but it would be split between AUSSOM and bilateral security cooperation. AU officials, who have encouraged the five African troop contributing countries to stay in Somalia regardless of new funding, are pushing for a pledging conference in Doha or London to bolster the missionβs coffers.
But absent a more permanent funding solution, the AU may have to curtail AUSSOMβs operations well before Somalia is ready. Countries may regret the long-term costs of their decision, even if it saves them money today.
The crisis entrepreneurs are desperate for the crisis to continue.

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