Somalia’s Inaugural National Human Rights Conference: A Beacon of Hope and Change

Mogadishu (AX) — The vibrant city of Mogadishu became the cradle of a new era on Monday as Somalia unveiled its first-ever National Human Rights Conference. This pivotal gathering, orchestrated by the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development, brought a diverse mix of minds together—government officials, civil society representatives, journalists, and international allies—all united under the banner of human rights protection in Somalia.

This three-day event stands as a monumental stride toward sculpting Somalia’s future as a leader in rights-based governance. Second Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalan Adan Ali, who inaugurated the conference, called upon the nation’s collective conscience. “It is time for Somalia to lead the way in human rights protection,” he declared. These words summoned thoughts of courage and accountability—an appeal to build a society where rights are not just preserved but cherished and accessible to all.

But can words alone kindle transformation? This initiative surfaces amid deepening concerns about Somalia’s constricting civic space, alongside a disquieting rise in violations against press freedom. To paint a harrowing picture: from May 2023 to May 2024, at least 28 violent acts against journalists were recorded, tragically including the loss of three media professionals’ lives. Alarmingly, only one incident saw justice, spotlighting a worrying culture of impunity. The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) further underscores the issue, citing 52 attacks in 2024—ranging from physical altercations to online harassment.

In light of these challenges, the Somali government is vigorously aligning domestic laws with international human rights protocols. Among these efforts is the appointment of a special prosecutor dedicated to crimes against journalists, the establishment of a national hotline for reporting these violations, and concerted training efforts for security and legal personnel about press freedom’s critical role.

The spectrum of this conference stretches wider—beyond media protections, anchoring its focus on empowering marginalized communities. Abdisalan voiced a compelling vision: expanding public office opportunities for women beyond the limiting 4.5 clan-based selection framework. Moreover, he affirmed the government’s resolve to integrate people with disabilities fully into Somalia’s workforce and civic engagement.

Before the event formally commenced, Abdisalan and Minister of Women and Human Rights Development Khadija Al-Makhzoumi explored an enriching exhibition. This showcase of visual art and photography echoed themes of justice, dignity, and equality—a testament to the heartbeats of human life.

Minister Al-Makhzoumi, during her eloquent address, narrated the ministry’s strategic roadmap intended to fortify Somalia’s human rights infrastructure. She underlined the crucial role of civil society organizations, empowering them to voice vital issues and collaborate dynamically with government entities in shaping robust policies. “This conference represents a turning point,” she asserted. “It signifies our government’s unwavering commitment to embedding human rights at the very core of national development.”

Second Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalan Adan Ali and Minister Khadija Al-Makhzoumi were present on April 14, 2025, to witness the opening of Somalia’s inaugural National Human Rights Conference in Mogadishu. For three days, government voices, civil society leaders, and international collaborators united to champion issues of press freedom, civic involvement, and governance rooted in rights.

As we reflect on these proceedings, we are encouraged to ponder: what stories will emerge from this dialogue? Will the conference’s momentum ignite sustained change? For the people of Somalia, who aspire to speak truth without fear and dream without boundaries, this moment may indeed be the bedrock of a more just tomorrow.