Mogadishu, Somalia – Bridging Gaps: The Role of Civil Society in Somalia’s Governance

The Somali Media Association (SOMA) recently applauded a significant meeting between civil society leaders and the European Union Ambassador to Somalia, Her Excellency Karin Johansson. This meeting, set against the backdrop of Somalia’s ongoing National Dialogue process, aimed to highlight the integral role of civil society in fostering inclusive governance and protecting human rights.

A Voice for the Voiceless

Mr. Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, the Secretary-General of SOMA, was a key participant. His statement resonated deeply, shedding light on the escalated threats confronting Somali journalists and independent media outlets today.

Press Freedom Under Siege

“The media environment in Somalia is deteriorating rapidly,” Mr. Abduwahab stated with palpable concern. Just over the past year, more than 100 journalists have been arrested arbitrarily, and several media outlets forcibly shut down. These reporters, committed to unveiling public concerns, often find themselves targeted by plainclothes security agents. Detained in unofficial locations, they face immense pressure to remain silent—a direct assault on press freedom and the fundamental constitutional right to information.

Questions of Institutional Integrity

Further compounding these issues, Mr. Abduwahab raised urgent concerns about the lack of inclusivity in the formation of critical national bodies. “The National Media Council and the process of establishing the Human Rights Commission are shrouded in opacity,” he noted, pointing out the exclusion of indispensable civil society and media stakeholders.

“The Media Council remains a symbolic structure with no real mandate or accountability,” Mr. Abduwahab observed candidly. “The Human Rights Commission’s formation appears more theatrical than credible, endangering civic space further.”

A Call for Action and EU Support

SOMA earnestly calls upon the European Union to facilitate substantive reforms that ensure Somalia’s oversight institutions are inclusive, transparent, and robust. Among their key recommendations are:

• Restructuring the National Media Council by including independent journalists, civil society leaders, and media law experts.
• Promoting genuine consultation and inclusion in establishing the Human Rights Commission.
• Implementing mechanisms to protect freedom of expression and ensure the safety of journalists.

Reflecting on the EU’s continuing commitment, Mr. Abduwahab concluded, “SOMA deeply values the EU’s engagement and seeks stronger support to safeguard the role of independent media in Somalia’s democratic transition.”

The Human Element

Imagine the courage of these journalists working under the shadow of threats—arms of the state hovering, ready to silence their pens. It’s a familiar tale across many parts of the world yet profoundly sobering in its recurrence. What does it mean for a society to stifle the voices that dare speak their truths? As we ponder this, we return to the pressing question: How can the international community foster a landscape where these voices are amplified, not muted?

Reflections and Aspirations

In a nation seeking a path to stability, these challenges, though daunting, are surmountable with collective will and sustained international support. As John F. Kennedy once remarked, “Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” The hope remains for a Somalia where media and civil society operate freely, serving as guardians of democracy and beacons of hope for all its citizens.

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Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring