Addressing Challenges Facing Human Rights Defenders in Somalia.
The WHRDs stand for solidarity at event held CSHRD in Mogadishu
Human rights defenders (HRDs) in Somalia face a range of significant challenges in 2023/2024 that require robust advocacy and mitigation plans. These challenges stem from a complex mix of political instability, insecurity, legal restrictions, and societal attitudes. Below are some key issues, along with proposed advocacy strategies and mitigation plans:
1. Insecurity and Armed Conflict
– Challenges: Somalia continues to grapple with armed conflict, particularly from the militant group Al-Shabaab. HRDs, including journalists, face threats, attacks, and killings. The general lack of security and law enforcement exacerbates these risks, leaving HRDs vulnerable.
The Actors that target the HRDs and undermine the civic space in Somalia are:
– State Actor (the Federal authority in Mogadishu and the federal States: Galmudug, South West, Puntland, Hirshabelle, & Juba + land)
– Ethiopian intelligence agents, & United Arab Emirates UAE agents
– Non-state actors e.g. Al-shabab terrorists and clan militias
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Advocacy for Protection Mechanisms: Push for the establishment of state and international protection mechanisms for HRDs, including emergency response systems.
– Safe Spaces and Relocation Programs: Develop safe houses or offer temporary relocation for HRDs at risk, in partnership with international NGOs and UN agencies.
– Training and Resources: Provide training on personal security, risk assessment, and digital security to HRDs.
2. Legal and Judicial Harassment
– Challenges: HRDs often face arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention, and unfair trials under a weak judicial system that is susceptible to political influence. The misuse of anti-terrorism laws to silence HRDs is also prevalent.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Legal Reform Campaigns: Advocate for the revision of laws that are used to target HRDs, particularly those related to anti-terrorism and defamation.
– Legal Support Networks: Establish a network of lawyers and legal aid organizations to provide defense for HRDs facing legal action.
– International Pressure: Engage with international bodies like the UN and African Union to pressure the Somali government to uphold international human rights standards.
3. Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom
– Challenges: Journalists and media workers face censorship, threats, and violence for reporting on human rights issues. Independent media is often suppressed, and HRDs face severe restrictions on freedom of speech.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Campaigns for Press Freedom: Launch advocacy campaigns highlighting the importance of press freedom and condemning attacks on journalists.
– Strengthening Independent Media: Support the establishment and funding of independent media outlets that can operate with some degree of safety, possibly from outside the country.
– International Monitoring: Request international bodies to monitor and report on violations of press freedom in Somalia.
4. Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination
– Challenges: Women HRDs face gender-specific threats, including sexual violence, discrimination, and cultural stigmatization. They are often targeted not only for their activism but also for challenging gender norms.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Gender-Specific Protection Programs: Advocate for and establish protection programs that specifically address the needs of women HRDs, including shelters and psychological support.
– Legal Advocacy for Women’s Rights: Campaign for stronger enforcement of laws against gender-based violence and discrimination, and for the inclusion of women’s rights in the broader human rights agenda.
– Community Engagement: Work with local communities to raise awareness about the role and rights of women HRDs, addressing cultural stigmas and promoting gender equality.
5. Limited Access to International Support and Resources
– Challenges: HRDs in Somalia often lack access to international networks, funding, and resources that could provide support and protection. This isolation leaves them more vulnerable to local threats.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Building International Partnerships: Strengthen ties between Somali HRDs and international human rights organizations to provide more robust support and advocacy on their behalf.
– Funding and Capacity Building: Secure funding for local NGOs and HRDs to ensure they have the necessary resources for their work, including security measures.
– Digital Advocacy Tools: Equip HRDs with digital tools and platforms that can enhance their ability to connect with international allies and mobilize support.
6. Impunity and Lack of Accountability
– Challenges: Perpetrators of violence against HRDs often go unpunished due to weak rule of law and widespread impunity. This lack of accountability emboldens further attacks and undermines trust in the justice system.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Impunity Watch and Reporting: Set up monitoring and reporting mechanisms to document cases of attacks on HRDs and push for investigations and prosecutions.
– Strengthening the Justice System: Advocate for reforms in the judicial system to increase its independence and ability to hold perpetrators accountable.
– International Sanctions: Call for international sanctions or travel bans against individuals and entities found responsible for attacks on HRDs.
7. Societal Hostility and Stigmatization
– Challenges: HRDs often face hostility from their communities, especially when defending marginalized groups or controversial issues. This can lead to social isolation and additional threats.
– Advocacy and Mitigation:
– Public Awareness Campaigns: Implement campaigns to educate the public on the importance of human rights and the work of HRDs, aiming to reduce stigma and hostility.
– Community Mediation Programs: Develop mediation and dialogue programs to foster better understanding between HRDs and local communities.
– Cultural Advocacy: Work with local cultural and religious leaders to build support for human rights and reduce resistance to HRDs’ work.
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges faced by HRDs in Somalia requires a multifaceted approach that combines local, national, and international efforts. Effective advocacy and mitigation strategies must be sensitive to the local context, engage a wide range of stakeholders, and provide both immediate protection and long-term structural changes. By implementing these strategies, the safety and effectiveness of HRDs in Somalia can be significantly improved.
Hanahr Advocacy Team
