Thursday October 9, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Britain has renewed its promise to stand by Somalia as the country works to strengthen human rights and rebuild systems of governance, following the adoption of a new resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday.
The resolution, introduced by the UK, strengthens cooperation between Somalia and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), marking a shift from the long-standing Independent Expert mechanism that previously oversaw the country’s human rights situation.
British Human Rights Ambassador Eleanor Sanders said the new framework represents “a historic step forward” in Somalia’s engagement with international human rights institutions.
“As we transition to a nationally led partnership with OHCHR, we recognize the invaluable work of the Independent Expert mandate since 1993,” Sanders said. “The UK welcomes the presence of Somalia’s Minister of Family and Human Rights Development and her team from Mogadishu.”
Sanders acknowledged that Somalia continues to face serious human rights challenges but praised the federal government for addressing them. She commended recent legislative progress, including the passing of the Juvenile Justice Bill in March 2025 and the Council of Ministers’ adoption of amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code in January 2025, describing them as “significant steps forward” in strengthening the rule of law.
She added the UK welcomes Mogadishu’s ongoing engagement with the UN Human Rights Council and broader international mechanisms designed to improve transparency and accountability.
Somalia has made notable progress in governance and reconciliation since 1993, taking steps to rebuild state institutions and stabilize the country after decades of conflict. However, Sanders also voiced concern about the ongoing toll of conflict and insecurity on civilians, reports of sexual and gender-based violence, and restrictions on freedom of expression, including the detention of journalists.
Until now, Somalia’s human rights situation has been overseen by independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. The current mandate holder, Isha Dyfan of Sierra Leone, was appointed in May 2020 and had her term extended last year to continue evaluating and reporting on Somalia’s human rights record.