S.1583 - AUSSOM Funding Restriction Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1583, the AUSSOM Funding Restriction Act of 2025, aims to restrict the use of United States assessed contributions to the United Nations for supporting the African Union's peacekeeping mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This restriction applies specifically to funding under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023). The bill outlines a policy of supporting Somali- and African partner-led initiatives to combat al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia, while also ensuring fair burden-sharing at the UN.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would prohibit the use of US assessed contributions to the UN for AUSSOM-related activities under Resolution 2719. It directs the US Ambassador to the UN to oppose resolutions authorizing such funding. Exceptions are made for UNSOS funding, voluntary contributions, humanitarian assistance, and oversight costs.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially ensures greater accountability for how US funds are used within UN peacekeeping operations.
- Encourages exploration of alternative funding mechanisms for AUSSOM, promoting international responsibility-sharing.
- Supports Somali- and African partner-led initiatives to address security challenges in Somalia.
- May lead to a more judicious consideration of US support for UN-assessed contributions to African Union peace support operations.
- Could incentivize the African Union to seek broader international support for its peacekeeping missions.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could weaken the African Union's peacekeeping efforts in Somalia by restricting a potential funding source.
- May strain relations with the United Nations and African Union if the US consistently opposes funding resolutions.
- Could limit the flexibility of the US government in responding to crises in Somalia.
- Might shift the financial burden onto other international actors or the African Union itself, potentially impacting mission effectiveness.
- The restriction may be perceived as a reduction in US commitment to international peacekeeping efforts.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to appropriate funds and regulate international commerce. The bill does not infringe upon individual liberties or rights guaranteed by the Constitution. The power of Congress to set conditions on how US funds are spent is a well-established principle.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).