UNIVERSITY OF MACEDONIA

Masters of science degree in

shipping and sea transports: economics and politics

CRISES MANAGMENT

Subject: The EU’s comprehensive approach on crisis management in Somalia

Author: Professor:
Peoglou Anestis Bellou Fotini

JUNE 23
 CONTENTS OF TABLE

➢ INTRODUCTION p.3
➢ CRISIS SITUATION p.3
➢ COMPREHENSIVE p.3-4
APPROACH
➢ SOMALIA p.4-5
➢ ESS IN SOMALIA p.5-6
➢ NAVFOR, EUTM, EUCAP p.6-8
➢ EU’S BUDGET IN SOMALIA p.8-9
➢ OTHER ACTIVE ACTORS p.9
➢ RECOMENDATIONS p.9
➢ CONCLUSION p.10
➢ BIBLIOGRAPGY p.11-13

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INTRODUCTION
The Somali crisis has presented complex challenges encompassing political instability,
security threats, humanitarian emergencies, and socio-economic problems. In response
to these multifaceted crises, the European Union (EU) has adopted a comprehensive
approach to crisis management in Somalia. Recognizing the interconnected nature of
the challenges and the need for a coordinated and integrated response, the EU has
implemented a multifaceted strategy that combines political engagement, security
sector reform, development assistance, and regional collaboration. This essay explores
the EU's comprehensive approach to crisis management in Somalia, analyzing its key
components, underlying principles, and its impact on stability, security, and
development in the region. By examining the EU's efforts, we can gain valuable insights
into the complexities of crisis management in a fragile context and evaluate the
effectiveness of a holistic approach in addressing the diverse challenges facing Somalia.
CRISIS AS SITUATION
A crisis in a state is a situation in which there is a serious and potentially destabilizing
problems or threat to the government, its institutions, or the people. It is often marked
by a big and sudden change in the normal flow of things, which creates a sense of
urgency and calls for attention and action right away. Moreover, Crisis in a state can
manifest in various forms for instance political crises, economic crises, social crises,
natural disasters, conflicts, or a combination of these factors. In order to understand
better those problems, I would like to clarify them:
o Political crisis: This happens when a state's political system or system of
government breaks down. Political unrest, power struggles, graft in the
government, constitutional crises, or a failure to meet the needs and demands of
citizens.
o An economic crisis is when a state's economy suffers a significant downturn
that causes financial instability, high unemployment rates, inflation, currency
devaluation, budget deficits, or the failure of the banking system. It may have
far-reaching negative impacts on people, businesses, and the general welfare of
the populace.
o Social unrest, protests, acts of civil disobedience, racial or religious tensions,
violations of human rights, or a breakdown in social cohesion are examples of
social unrest. It frequently reflects the state's population's deep divisions and
anger.
o Disasters caused by natural forces, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods,
droughts, or pandemics, are referred to as natural disasters. Natural disasters
frequently necessitate emergency response and recovery efforts because they
can seriously damage infrastructure, interrupt essential services, kill
populations, and strain resources.
(Major et al., 2011; Pirozzi, n.d.)
COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH
The Comprehensive Approach places a strong emphasis on the requirement for a
coordinated and integrated response involving numerous policy areas and stakeholders,

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including EU institutions, member states, international organizations, non-
governmental organizations, and local actors. In addition to promoting peace, stability,
and sustainable development, it aims to improve the EU's capacity for conflict
prevention, management, and resolution. A strategic framework and strategy created by
the European Union (EU) to address complex and multifaceted crises and challenges
that takes into account political, security, humanitarian, developmental, and diplomatic
dimensions is known as the "Comprehensive Approach."
Key elements of the EU's Comprehensive Approach include:
1. Whole-of-Government Approach: To ensure that political, security,
developmental, and humanitarian considerations are effectively incorporated
into decision-making processes, the EU encourages its member states to adopt
a solid and coordinated approach across all pertinent government departments.
2. The EU aims to improve civil-military cooperation in crisis management and
peacebuilding initiatives. In order to deal with complex crises, it is important to
combine civilian and military capabilities.
3. Multidimensional Interventions: The Comprehensive Approach encourages
interventions that cover a wide range of actions, including conflict prevention,
mediation, humanitarian aid, post-conflict reconstruction, institution-building,
and long-term development support. It acknowledges that tackling the
underlying issues and offering long-lasting solutions call for an extensive and
long-term viewpoint.
4. Partnership and Coordination: The EU highlights the value of collaboration and
joint efforts with global institutions, regional players, and local stakeholders. In
order to maximize the impact of interventions and reduce duplication of effort,
it aims to improve synergies and coordination among various actors
5. Policy Coherence: The Comprehensive Approach illustrates the necessity of
policy coherence across various EU policies and instruments to make sure that
various initiatives and actions are coordinated and mutually supportive. It aims
to combine security, development, and governance concerns into an extensive
and balanced approach.
(Comprehensive Approaches to Crisis Management, n.d.; Major et al., 2011;
Sustainability (IDOS), n.d.-a)
INFORMATION ABOUT SOMALIA
Somalia is a nation in the Horn of Africa, bordered to the west by Ethiopia, to the
northwest by Djibouti, to the southwest by Kenya, to the north by the Gulf of Aden,
and to the east by the Indian Ocean. Also, political unrest and conflict have existed in
Somalia for many years. The central government was overthrown in 1991, which
resulted in a protracted period of statelessness and the emergence of numerous regional
governments and armed organizations. Moreover, significant security issues that
Somalia has had to deal with include armed conflict, terrorism, piracy, and violence
between clans. Attacks by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Islamist extremist group Al-Shabaab
on the government, security personnel, and civilian targets have caused a serious
security risk. Another key thing to remember is humanitarian crises, such as famines,
famines, displacement, and food insecurity, have repeatedly affected Somalia. Cycles

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of drought and insufficient rainfall have had an impact on the nation, resulting in
numerous crop failures, livestock losses, and malnutrition. Although vulnerable
populations are helped by humanitarian organizations, the situation is still precarious.
Further the main economic activities in Somalia are agriculture, livestock, and fishing,
making up the majority of the country's economy. Untapped natural resources in the
nation include potential offshore oil and gas reserves. Though economic growth has
been hampered by years of conflict and instability, poverty and unemployment rates
continue to be high. Also, I would like to add that Puntland, Jubaland, Southwest,
Galmudug, and Hirshabelle are the five regional states that make up Somalia's federal
system of government. Somaliland is also a self-declared autonomous region. The
capital city of Mogadishu is home to the federal government. It is important to note that
the situation in Somalia is complex and dynamic, with ongoing efforts to stabilize the
country, strengthen governance, and address the various challenges it faces.
Furthermore, the history of Somalia is extensive and goes back thousands of years.
Ancient civilizations lived in the area, including the Land of Punt, which conducted
trade with ancient Egypt. Along the coast, Somali city-states arose and conducted
business with Arab and Persian traders (Pro-colonial era) after that parts of Somalia
were colonized by European powers in the late 19th century. British Somaliland, the
name given to the area in the north, was colonized by the British, Italian Somaliland,
the name given to the area in the south and center, was colonized by the Italians. Up
until the end of World War II, these areas had separate colonial governments. In 1960,
both British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland gained independence and unified to
form the Somali Republic. Aden Abdullah Osman Daar became the first President of
Somalia. The country adopted a democratic system of government. But President Daar
was deposed in 1969 during a military takeover directed by General Mohamed Siad
Barre. Barre imposed an autocratic government and ruled Somalia for more than 20
years. His administration nationalized important industries and adopted scientific
socialism as its ideology. In the late 1990 when the Barre government was overthrown,
a brutal civil war broke out in Somalia. For control, various clans, warlords, and
factions engaged in a protracted and devastating conflict. A state of anarchy and
fragmentation resulted from the collapse of the central government, with various
regions claiming varying levels of autonomy.
(Khayre, 2016; Lewis, 2003; Njoku, 2013)
ESS IN SOMALIA
Using a number of mechanisms and initiatives, the European Union (EU) has been
actively involved in security-related efforts in Somalia. The main goals of the EU's
involvement are to aid in the nation's development, security, and stability. It's crucial to
remember that the EU's security-related efforts in Somalia are a part of a larger, more
comprehensive strategy that takes into account aspects of diplomacy, politics,
humanitarian aid, and development. To address the complex issues and advance long-
term stability and security in the nation, the EU collaborates with other international
actors, regional organizations, and the Somali government. Such as The African
Union's regional peacekeeping mission in Somalia, AMISOM, has received a sizable
amount of funding from the EU. The EU has supported AMISOM financially,

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logistically, and technically, paying for troop allowances, supplies, and training.
Additionally, the EU has taken a leading role in efforts to strengthen Somalia's security
sector through capacity building. In order to increase their capacity to combat terrorism,
uphold law and order, and protect the populace, Somali security forces, including the
Somali National Army and police, will receive support for training and equipment. Also
given Somalia's location along the coast of the Indian Ocean, maritime security has
been a crucial concern. The EU has been involved in combating piracy off the Somali
coast, contributing to naval operations such as Operation Atalanta under the EU's
Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP). These efforts aim to deter, prevent, and
disrupt acts of piracy and ensure the safety of maritime trade routes. It is worth of
consideration the fact that initiatives in Somalia to reform the security sector, with a
focus on creating reliable and accountable security institutions, have received support
from the EU. This includes aiding in the creation of legal frameworks, enhancing
governance and oversight systems, and advancing the rule of law and respect for human
rights in the security industry. Moreover, the EU has been actively engaged in terrorism
prevention and supporting initiatives to counter extremist organizations like Al-
Shabaab in Somalia. Supporting initiatives to counter radicalization and advance
alternative narratives, fostering community resilience, and providing training and
assistance to local security forces are all part of this.
(Bruton, 2010; Ehrhart & Petretto, 2012, 2014; Höhne, 2006; The Somalia Conflict
Implications for Peacemaking and Peacekeeping Efforts, n.d.) (‘Mapping the European
Union’s Presence in Somalia’, n.d.)
NAVFOR
In December 2008, the European Union (EU) launched NAVFOR, also known as
Operation Atalanta, a military operation with the main goal of securing the protection
of ships and seafarers from piracy off the coast of Somalia and in the larger Indian
Ocean region. Off the coast of Somalia, NAVFOR's mission is to deter, prevent, and
suppress acts of piracy and armed robbery. Its main goal is to improve shipping safety
and provide protection for ships that are at risk, such as fishing boats, merchant ships,
and ships carrying humanitarian aid. The objectives of NAVFOR are to protect
maritime trade routes, uphold regional stability, and aid in the expansion of Somalia's
maritime capabilities. Over an area of about 2 million square nautical miles, NAVFOR
is active in the Western Indian Ocean, The Red Sea, the Somali Basin, the Gulf of Aden,
and a portion of the Arabian Sea are included in this. The proximity to important
shipping lanes makes the operational area strategically significant. Also, naval
resources from EU member states make up NAVFOR. Warships, helicopters, and
maritime patrol aircraft are a few examples of these resources. On a rotating basis, the
participating nations support the operation with ships and personnel. The operational
headquarters, which is in Northwood, United Kingdom, manages the force.
Furthermore, I would like to present some key points of this mission:
o Escorting vulnerable vessels, such as World Food Program (WFP) ships and
other merchant vessels, through high-risk areas.
o Conducting patrols and surveillance to deter pirate activities.

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 o Boarding and searching suspect vessels for weapons, piracy-related equipment,
or evidence of criminal activities.
o Engaging in intelligence gathering and information sharing with international
partners to enhance situational awareness and response capabilities.
o Conducting capacity-building activities to support the development of maritime
capabilities in regional states, including training and mentoring initiatives.
If we want to talk about partnerships, NAVFOR mission is an excellent example
because Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and individual naval assets sent by non-
EU nations, NAVFOR works closely with other international naval forces. This
partnership aims to improve regional counter-piracy efforts' coordination, information
sharing, and overall effectiveness. If we make a try to evaluate NAVFOR, I strongly
believe that Piracy off the Somalian coast has significantly decreased thanks to
NAVFOR. The operation has been successful in stopping pirate attacks, assisting with
the prosecution of suspected pirates, and acting as a deterrent to piracy. Additionally, it
has supported the general security and stability of the region and helped ensure the safe
transit of humanitarian aid shipments.
(Mission | EUNAVFOR, n.d.)
EUTM Somalia (European Union Training Mission in Somalia)
EUTM Somalia (European Union Training Mission in Somalia) is a military training
mission established by the European Union (EU) in 2010. Its primary objective is to
support the development of Somali security forces, specifically the Somali National
Army (SNA), through training, mentoring, and capacity-building efforts. EUTM
Somalia's mandate is to provide training, advice, and support to the SNA, contributing
to the establishment of a capable, inclusive, and sustainable Somali security sector. The
mission aims to enhance the professionalism, effectiveness, and accountability of the
SNA by providing training in areas such as military leadership, planning, logistics,
human rights, and the rule of law. Moreover, EUTM Somalia conducts training and
mentoring activities for Somali military personnel at different levels. This includes
providing basic and advanced training courses, supporting the development of training
institutions, and mentoring Somali officers and non-commissioned officers. The focus
is on building the capacity and capabilities of the SNA to enable it to effectively address
security challenges. Regarding institutional development EUTM Somalia assists in the
development and enhancement of Somali security sector institutions. This involves
supporting the establishment of functional structures, procedures, and systems within
the SNA. EUTM provides expertise and guidance in areas such as command and
control, logistics, administration, and human resources. Also, EUTM Somalia places
emphasis on promoting respect for human rights, international humanitarian law, and
gender mainstreaming within the Somali security forces. Take into consideration the
coordination together with other international actors like the African Union Mission in
Somalia (AMISOM) and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM),
EUTM Somalia conducts its operations in close coordination. Collaboration and
information exchange with these organizations help Somalia develop its security sector
in a thorough and well-coordinated manner. It is clear the fact that EUTM has extremely
positive results, have contributed to the professionalization and capacity-building of the

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Somali security forces. The mission has helped enhance the SNA's capabilities and
operational readiness, enabling it to play a more effective role in maintaining security
and stability in Somalia.
(EUTM Somalia: European Union Training Mission in Somalia - Military Mission |
EEAS, n.d.)
EUCAP IN SOMALIA
EUCAP Somalia (European Union Capacity Building Mission in Somalia) is a civilian-
led mission established by the European Union (EU) in 2012. It aims to enhance the
capacity of Somali maritime security institutions and law enforcement agencies,
contributing to the development of a sustainable and comprehensive Somali maritime
security sector. EUCAP Somalia's mandate is to provide advice, training, and
mentoring to Somali maritime security institutions, including the Somali Maritime
Police, Coast Guard, and other relevant agencies. The mission aims to support the
development of effective maritime governance, maritime law enforcement, and coastal
and maritime security capabilities in Somalia. Also, works to strengthen Somali
maritime security by providing expertise in areas such as maritime surveillance,
maritime border control, maritime law enforcement, and counter-piracy efforts. The
mission supports the establishment and enhancement of operational structures,
procedures, and capabilities to ensure effective maritime security. In order to create
laws & strong legal framework EUCAP Somalia offers assistance with the creation and
enforcement of statutory and regulatory frameworks for maritime law enforcement and
security. This includes aiding in the creation of laws, rules, and operational standards
that adhere to global norms and best practices. Additionally, the activities of EUCAP
Somalia are intended to assist the Somali authorities in gradually taking full ownership
of their own maritime security. By addressing issues like maritime crime, piracy, and
illegal fishing, among others, it supports Somalia's overall stability, security, and
economic growth.
(EUCAP Somalia | EEAS, n.d.)
EU’S BUDGET IN SOMALIA
The Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) budget of the EU provides funding
for the European Union (EU) missions in Somalia, for funding the EU's common
security and defense initiatives, a specific allocation of funds within the overall EU
budget is designated as the CSDP budget. Contributions from EU member states that
are based on their Gross National Income (GNI) are used to fund the CSDP budget. A
certain portion of each member state's GNI goes toward funding the EU budget, which
also covers funding for CSDP initiatives. Depending on the priorities and decisions
made by the EU institutions, the precise amount given to CSDP missions may change
from year to year. The CSDP budget funds the EU missions in Somalia in a variety of
ways, including staff salaries, operational expenses, training initiatives, capacity-
building initiatives, equipment, infrastructure, and support services. The money is used
to support the missions' operations as well as the growth of the law enforcement,
maritime security, and security forces in Somalia. The EU also raises additional funds
through other funding instruments and mechanisms in addition to the CSDP budget to

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support its involvement in Somalia. The European Development Fund (EDF) for
development and humanitarian aid, the Instrument Contributing to Stability and Peace
for crisis response and conflict prevention, as well as other pertinent financial
instruments and programs, may be included in this. It's important to keep in mind that
the precise financial arrangements, financial allocations, and contributions may change
based on the objectives, timeline, and choices made by the EU institutions.
(EU Projects with Somalia | EEAS, n.d.; Sustainability (IDOS), n.d.-b)
OTHER ACTIVE ACTROS
1. United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM): UNSOM is a
political mission established by the United Nations (UN) to support
peacebuilding, governance, and state-building in Somalia. It provides political
and technical support to the Somali federal government, facilitates dialogue, and
coordinates international assistance.
2. African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM): AMISOM is a regional
peacekeeping mission authorized by the African Union. Its primary objective is
to support the stabilization and security efforts in Somalia.
3. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA):
OCHA coordinates humanitarian response efforts in Somalia, ensuring effective
delivery of assistance and protection to those affected by crises. OCHA works
closely with humanitarian partners, including NGOs, to coordinate relief
activities and provide support in emergency situations.
4. International NGOs: Numerous international NGOs operate in Somalia,
providing humanitarian aid, development assistance, and support for crisis
management. These organizations include CARE International, Oxfam, Save
the Children, and Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), among
others.
(Comprehensive Approaches to Crisis Management, n.d.)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Moving forward, several key recommendations can be made to strengthen the EU's
comprehensive approach to crisis management in Somalia. Firstly, the EU should
continue to prioritize political engagement and support inclusive governance processes
in Somalia, fostering political stability and reconciliation. Secondly, efforts to enhance
security sector reform should be intensified, focusing on building the capacity and
effectiveness of Somali security forces while promoting accountability and respect for
human rights. Thirdly, the EU should increase its investment in sustainable
development programs, focusing on sectors such as education, healthcare,
infrastructure, and job creation to address the socio-economic vulnerabilities that
contribute to instability. Additionally, deeper collaboration with regional organizations
and neighboring countries should be pursued to address cross-border challenges,
promote regional stability, and strengthen coordination in crisis management efforts.
(Ehrhart & Petretto, 2014)

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CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the EU's comprehensive approach to crisis management in Somalia has
been a significant endeavor aimed at addressing the complex challenges facing the
country. Through a multifaceted strategy that combines political engagement, security
sector reform, development assistance, and regional collaboration, the EU has
demonstrated its commitment to stability, security, and development in Somalia. While
progress has been made, it is clear that the road to long-term stability and resilience
remains arduous. The EU's comprehensive approach has shown the potential for
addressing the interconnected nature of crises in Somalia, emphasizing the importance
of holistic and integrated strategies. However, ongoing efforts are required to sustain
the achievements made so far and to address the underlying drivers of the crises. By
continuing to invest in political dialogue, security sector reform, development
initiatives, and regional cooperation, the EU can contribute to a more stable, secure,
and prosperous Somalia.

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