Championing Human Rights in Somalia’s Linguistic Landscape

“Every individual is born free and equal in dignity and rights.” This legendary opening line from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) now resonates in seven additional languages and dialects spoken throughout Somalia’s diverse populace. This multilingual initiative aims to enhance awareness and comprehension of fundamental human rights within this Horn of Africa nation.

This initiative has garnered support from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) in conjunction with the National Museum of Somalia. It has facilitated translations into various dialects, including Af Maay, Baajuni, Chimini, Dabaare, Gare, Jiido, and Maadoonte. Renowned for being the most translated document globally, the UDHR boasts over 500 translations, illustrating its universal essence more than 75 years after its inception.

As Kirsten Young, Chief of UNSOM’s Human Rights and Protection Group, remarked during the recent launch at the National Museum in Mogadishu, “The Universal Declaration of Human Rights belongs to everyone. By making it accessible in multiple languages, we ensure that more individuals comprehend these rights and realize they are entitled to them.” The launch welcomed community leaders and museum representatives alike, showcasing local art that celebrates the rich cultures of Somalia’s linguistic groups.

Amina Mohamed Farah, hailing from the Jiido community, emphasized the significance of rendering the UDHR in various dialects. “This move is pivotal for advancing the universal notion of human rights and safeguarding the most at-risk populations,” she asserted. “My community can now grasp what these universal rights entail and increasingly recognize the inhumane practices affecting women, children, and the elderly, as well as the rights of girls.”

Osman Geedow Amir, the National Museum’s director, endorsed the initiative, stating that it empowers individuals and groups by bringing human rights into their local vernacular. “Displaying the UDHR in various dialects simplifies and localizes important rights that have often been overlooked in Somalia,” Amir explained.

Initially adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948, the UDHR was groundbreaking—setting forth the fundamental human rights that should be universally upheld. Its establishment has paved the way for a multitude of human rights treaties, currently implemented on both global and regional fronts.

At the initiative’s launch, Young reiterated the importance of this effort, blending cultural awareness with the promotion of human rights across Somalia’s myriad communities. © UNSOM