Between the precision of diplomacy and the pulse of humanity, Sweden has meticulously crafted bridges of hope to support Somalia’s resurgence from its greatest challenges. Swedish support is not measured merely by financial aid but by its profound humanitarian touch\u2014restoring livelihoods, protecting pastoralists from the harshness of drought, and offering younger generations the dream of stability on their ancestral land.<\/p>\n
This strategic partnership places “Somali human dignity” at the heart of international policy, driven by a firm belief that sustainable peace begins with empowering citizens, protecting their fundamental rights, and building a resilient economic environment that transforms transient crises into lasting national achievements.<\/p>\n
In this forward-looking interview, H.E. Ambassador Hans Henric Lundquist shares insights into Sweden\u2019s unique development partnership with the UNDP, outlining the roadmap toward a resilient and prosperous Somalia:<\/p>\n
\u200bQ:<\/span> Sweden has been one of the major development partners supporting Somalia. What are the current strategic development priorities for Somalia and why is it important?<\/span><\/p>\n A:<\/strong> Sweden\u2019s priorities from a development cooperation perspective will continue to focus on state-building, resilience and economic development with integration of human rights, gender equality and conflict perspectives. A safe and secure Somalia where the population has economic opportunities are long term goals. Climate shocks must be handled in an efficient way, and we aim to support the resilience of Somalis in a peaceful Somalia.<\/p>\n Q:<\/span> Looking back at 2025, how would you assess the impact of Sweden-UNDP partnership in Somalia? What stands out for you as a longstanding partner?<\/span><\/p>\n A:<\/strong> UNDP has been a valued partner for Sweden for a long time. The reforms UNDP has been a part of has created conditions for continuous progress. That means that the prospects are better that Somalis can live in a more peaceful and prosperous Somalia, reducing the need to leave the country on dangerous routes. UNDP\u2019s work is of high quality, and you manage to navigate a challenging context. Over time, we see results through our chairmanship of the steering committee of the Somalia Joint Fund, in the joint efforts to strengthen Somalia\u2019s management of climate related shocks and in the support to the government\u2019s implementation of the National Transformation Plan.<\/p>\n Q:<\/span> Looking ahead, what would you consider the major priorities in the coming years?<\/span><\/p>\n A:<\/strong> There is a need for a strong UN presence in Somalia when the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) mandate expires. The core mandate of UNDP to strengthen governance and reduce poverty is extremely important in Somalia. UNDP will likely have an important role as the UN transitions to a country team and Sweden is of course invested in the success of that transition. We want to make sure that the international community plays a key partner role in Somalia\u2019s future development.<\/p>\n Q:<\/span> What message would you like to share with the Somali people and stakeholders regarding your commitment to supporting Somalia\u2019s development journey?<\/span><\/p>\n A: Sweden will continue its support to Somalia and its peoples. There are longstanding ties between Sweden and Somalia, and we hope that new ties can be established through business and trade as new opportunities arise.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Between the precision of diplomacy and the pulse of humanity, Sweden has meticulously crafted bridges of hope to support Somalia’s resurgence from its greatest challenges. Swedish support is not measured merely by financial aid but by its profound humanitarian touch\u2014restoring livelihoods, protecting pastoralists from the harshness of drought, and offering younger generations the dream of …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18846","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","","category-intvs-insights"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t