The United Nations in Somalia comprises 17 United Nations agencies, funds and programmes, as well as the UN Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS) and the World Bank. All UN Agencies are members of the UN Country Team, the body which makes decisions on all programmes and operations in Somalia.

Under the leadership of the UN Resident / Humanitarian Coordinator, the UN in Somalia collectively covers a broad spectrum of humanitarian, recovery and development work in Somalia. The political work is lead by the head of UNPOS, who also serves as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General.

The UN’s humanitarian programmes in Somalia focus on saving lives by providing assistance to Somalis in need, improving protection and respect for human rights, and strengthening local capacity for delivery of basic social services and for disaster preparedness and response.

The UN’s recovery and development programmes in Somalia aim to support institution-building for national, regional and local governance structures, improve security and protection under the law, increase access to quality education and health services, and improve food security and employment opportunities.

The UN in Somalia using two guiding frameworks for all of its activities: the Consolidated Appeal for humanitarian activities, and the UN Transition Plan for recovery and development programmes.

In 2008, the activities of the UN in Somalia were worth $405.4 million USD. This includes $319.5 million USD for humanitarian assistance and $85.9 USD million for recovery and development activities.

In 2009, the UN is planning to increase its assistance due to the growing needs. As the UN does not have funds upfront, it must raise funds from donors.