Counterinsurgency in Somalia: Lessons Learned from the African Union Mission in Somalia, 2007-2013

Abstract

Abstract : This monograph provides a detailed case study of how the African Union s (AU) largest ever peace support operation the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) sought to achieve its objectives. Though AMISOM activities continue, this monograph covers the period from its initial deployment in March 2007 through December 2013. It is based on an analysis of AMISOM s genesis and evolution and its principal partners the various forms of federal authorities in Somalia and its principal opponent Harakat al-Shabaab (the youth). Also included is an analysis of U.S. engagement with Somalia during this period. The study does not offer a comprehensive assessment of the multiple forms of broader international engagement with Somalia but instead focuses on the AMISOM experience. Nor does the study seek to advance one simple argument about AMISOM or impose a single theoretical framework for analyzing the mission. Pushing one argument or framework makes little sense because AMISOM and the international context in which it operated evolved in significant ways between 2007 and 2013. Instead, the study is based on a historical and political analysis of the key players and seeks to draw out key strategic and political lessons from AMISOM s experiences.