GENEVA – Somalia’s Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development, in collaboration with the Somali Embassy in Geneva, held a special side event at the United Nations to showcase the significant strides the nation has made in human rights. The meeting, which took place at the UN headquarters in Geneva, drew participation from numerous countries and members of the UN Human Rights Council.
The event was co-chaired by Somalia’s Minister, Ambassador Khadiija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, and the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights, Eleanor Sanders. Minister Al-Makhzoumi highlighted Somalia’s commitment to advancing a human rights agenda, emphasizing that despite facing complex challenges, the government remains dedicated to reform and progress.
During the panel discussion, key speakers offered a detailed look into the country’s human rights landscape. Somalia’s Permanent Representative to the UN and its agencies in Geneva, Ambassador Qadra Duale, was among the speakers, along with the UK’s Ambassador Eleanor Sanders and First Secretary Charles Kent. The panel also included a representative from civil society, Omar Faruk Osman, the Secretary-General of the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), and Mohamed Bashir Omar, the Director-General of the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development. The active participation of civil society, as represented by NUSOJ, demonstrated Somalia’s inclusive approach to human rights discourse.
The discussions covered both the achievements and the challenges facing Somalia. Participants engaged in a lively debate, with many offering a mix of praise and questions. The progress that Somalia has made was warmly welcomed by all in attendance, reinforcing the international community’s support for the nation’s ongoing reform efforts. The UK’s participation in co-chairing the event also highlights a strong partnership with the Somali government on these critical issues, as demonstrated by Ambassador Sanders’ recent remarks on the importance of human rights in Somalia.
The meeting at the UN Human Rights Council marks an important moment for Somalia. It provides a platform to not only acknowledge the nation’s progress but also to foster crucial international partnerships that are vital to building a future rooted in justice, dignity, and human rights for all citizens.
