UK supports Somalia’s shift from UN oversight to homegrown human rights leadership

The United Kingdom has pledged continued support to Somalia in strengthening its human rights and governance systems through a new resolution presented at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday.

Delivering the statement on behalf of the UK Core Group, Human Rights Ambassador Eleanor Sanders said the resolution is part of the UK’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s journey towards sustainable peace, development, and accountability.

"Since 1993, Somalia has made significant strides in rebuilding from conflict, strengthening governance, and advancing stability and reconciliation. We commend the Somali authorities for their continued engagement with this Council and with the wider UN human rights system. We also recognise that Somalia continues to face serious human rights challenges, but we welcome the government's willingness to confront these issues head-on, including through open and constructive dialogue here in Geneva," she told the Council.

The resolution aims to enhance technical assistance and capacity-building for Somalia’s justice and security institutions.

Historic step forward

"This resolution marks a historic step forward for Somalia. It transitions from a long-standing Independent Expert mandate to a new partnership with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. This evolution reflects Somalia's growing institutional capacity, its commitment to reform, and the maturity of its cooperation with the international community," Sanders said.

Under the new arrangement, the focus will shift to supporting Somalia’s national human rights priorities, while maintaining ongoing monitoring and public reporting.

"This balance of partnership and oversight remains essential to sustained progress. We particularly welcome Somalia's commitment to establish a fully independent National Human Rights Commission, a vital institution to safeguard rights, promote accountability, and give voice to all Somalis. We look forward to the Council's support for this resolution," she added.

Previously, Somalia’s human rights situation was monitored by Independent Experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. The current expert, Ms Isha Dyfan from Sierra Leone, was appointed in May 2020 and her mandate was extended last year to continue assessing, monitoring, and reporting on human rights in Somalia, while recommending technical assistance and capacity-building measures.

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