Somalia’s Press Under Siege: A Six-Month Reflection

The landscape of media freedom in Somalia paints a troubling picture—a stark rise in attacks against journalists has caught the attention of the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ). During just the first half of 2025, 41 documented violations directly related to their journalistic endeavors emerged. These were not random acts or misunderstandings. Rather, they were deliberate attempts to threaten and stifle those courageous enough to report independently.

This figure marks the highest mid-year record in three years. Why such an increase? Journalists brave enough to pose tough questions, uncover unsettling truths, or scrutinize power structures are being penalized. These actions go beyond individual hardship; they represent a strategy to curtail media freedom, limit information access, and instill fear among others.

The true danger lies in its organized nature. NUSOJ views it as a chilling campaign of intimidation and coercion. Threats, physical attacks, and unlawful detentions have become commonplace for journalists doing their jobs. Often, they’re detained briefly—not to collect evidence—but to deliver a clear warning. It’s an insidious method meant to erode confidence, intimidate, and compel self-censorship.

Meticulous in their documentation, NUSOJ verified these 41 incidents as blatant breaches of freedom of expression—a right firmly anchored in Somalia’s Provisional Constitution. These violations contradict Somalia’s international commitments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The gap between rhetoric and reality is glaring when comparing these actions to the National Action Plan and the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists.

“What is happening is not law enforcement. It is a brutal effort to crush the media and control what people see and hear,” declared Omar Faruk Osman, Secretary General of NUSOJ. “Journalists aren’t targeted for law-breaking; they’re hunted for truth-telling. The message is clear: remain silent or face the consequences. Yet, journalists remain resolute. Attempts to silence them will never bury the truth.”

Within the recorded incidents, Mogadishu stands out with 27 cases, making it the most perilous location for journalists during this timeframe. In March, April, and May, state security forces, notably the Somali Federal Police and National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) agents, targeted journalists. Frequently, these forces acted independently, attempting to display loyalty to political figures by exerting control over the press.

“The national political leadership must rein in security commanders acting on misplaced authority. Their rogue actions only exacerbate tensions,” urged Osman.

In North Western State of Somalia, 12 journalists encountered attacks, a persistent issue even with new governance. This continuity illustrates that leadership changes have not improved media conditions. Northeastern State and Galmudug each reported one case, signaling a widespread issue. Although not all regions reported violations, no area is immune to the risk faced by truth-seeking journalists.

It’s worth noting that of the 40 journalists attacked, 36 were men, and 4 were women. Additionally, an entire media house faced a shutdown. These figures illustrate the harsh reality: journalists in Somalia, irrespective of gender, confront significant risks simply for fulfilling their roles.

NUSOJ calls on Somali authorities, both federal and regional, to immediately cease hostility towards the media. Protect, don’t punish journalists. Those perpetrating harassment, detention, or threats must be held accountable. The fundamental right to report must be universally respected.

“This issue transcends the media; it’s a national crisis,” emphasized Osman. “Building peace, justice, or democracy is impossible while silencing truth-bearers. We demand recognition of rights enshrined in law. Journalism isn’t a crime; it’s a societal duty serving all.”

The path forward may be fraught, but commitment to truth and justice is unwavering among journalists who continue to risk their lives for societal good. As challenges mount, we must reflect: what kind of future are we building if voices are muted? The answer may define Somalia’s history moving forward.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring