Human Rights Commission Calls for Stronger Protection of Journalists in Somalia

MOGADISHU (SONNA) – The Somali National Independent Human Rights Commission has called for stronger protection of journalists and accountability for crimes committed against media professionals during an event in Mogadishu marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

Speaking on behalf of the Commission, Commissioner Farhan Jimale called for effective investigations into violations against journalists, access to remedies for victims and accountability for those responsible.

The Commission also welcomed the Somali Media Women Association’s (SOMWA) 2026 report on press freedom for women in Somali media, highlighting the need for practical protection measures against gender-based harassment, threats and online abuse.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with media organisations, civil society and public authorities to strengthen monitoring, complaints and referral mechanisms and support Somalia’s National Action Plan on the Safety of Journalists.

It stressed that protecting journalists is essential to safeguarding freedom of expression and the public’s right to information.