End Workplace Discrimination Against Somali Women

MOGADISHU (PRESS RELEASE) – The Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU) expresses grave concern regarding the pervasive and harmful treatment of Somali women, especially those seeking employment or currently holding jobs, within both governmental and private sectors. A worrisome pattern of workplace harassment, encompassing sexual misconduct and gender-based bias, violates fundamental human rights and serves as a formidable obstacle to women’s economic independence and full involvement in the labor market.

Sexual Harassment and Exploitation:

Daily, Somali women endure the grim reality of sexual harassment in their workplaces. A troubling number of women have shared their experiences, indicating that gaining employment in government establishments often requires succumbing to unsolicited advances from influential figures like ministers and senior officials. This toxic climate of coercion and exploitation is intolerable and demands immediate action.

Gender Pay Gap and Employment Discrimination:

Beyond the issue of harassment, Somali women face stark inequalities in compensation and job opportunities. Even with identical qualifications and experience, women frequently receive lower wages than their male counterparts and are routinely overlooked for promotions or leadership roles. The gender pay disparity stands as a blatant indictment of the entrenched inequities still prevalent in Somali workplaces.

SOCOTU’s Call to Action:

SOCOTU urges the Somali government, private industry employers, and all involved parties to take swift, decisive actions to eliminate these discriminatory practices.

1. **Strict Enforcement of Anti-Harassment Laws:** The government must ensure that laws designed to combat workplace harassment are strictly enforced. Furthermore, it is crucial that wrongdoers face appropriate consequences. We advocate for the introduction of reinforced legal protections for women at work.

2. **Equal Pay for Equal Work:** Employers should prioritize equal compensation for women and men performing the same roles. SOCOTU calls for governmental policies that ensure transparency around wage structures and impose penalties on those who perpetuate the gender pay divide.

3. **Safe Reporting Mechanisms:** Create secure and confidential pathways for women to report harassment or discrimination. It is vital that these processes guarantee that complaints are addressed seriously and that protecting victims from retaliation is a priority.

4. **Training and Awareness Programs:** SOCOTU advocates for training initiatives targeting both employers and employees to enhance awareness of gender equality, workplace harassment, and women’s rights. This knowledge is pivotal in fostering a respectful work culture.

SOCOTU’s Commitment:

SOCOTU remains steadfast in its dedication to advocating for the rights of Somali women in the workplace. Our endeavor is to promote policies that uphold gender equality, shield women from harassment and discrimination, and guarantee that all workers enjoy dignity and respect.

The moment to act is upon us. Somali women deserve work environments that celebrate their value, grant them respect, and shield them from exploitation. SOCOTU will persist in its efforts until these fundamental rights are irrevocably established for every woman across Somalia.

—

SOCOTU, the Somali Congress of Trade Unions, stands at the forefront as the leading labor organization in Somalia. It brings together multiple national unions, state federations, and community-based labor councils, effectively representing over 100,000 workers nationwide.