Concluding her official visit to the Horn of Africa nation, Isha Dyfan emphasized the impact on civilians, especially women and children, who continue to suffer deadly attacks by terrorists. carried out by Al-Shabaab.
“I strongly condemn the continued deadly attacks perpetrated by Al-Shabaab and call on the Government to take every step to ensure the protection of civiliansand require armed groups to strictly comply with the obligations applicable to them under international humanitarian and human rights law,” she said.
“It is also important that the Government must take specific actions to prosecute State officials involved in human rights violations, ensure that those responsible are held accountable and survivors of those violations have been adequately compensated.”
During her visit, she held a series of meetings with representatives of the Federal Government of Somalia, civil society, the African Union Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and various agencies of the United Nations.
Act against sexual violence
Ms. Dyfan also called on the authorities promptly investigate and prosecute cases of sexual violence and gender-based violence.
She said allegations of rape and gang rape with murder needed to be dealt with effectively, ensuring that the alleged perpetrators were identified and brought to justice.
“All necessary measures must be taken to strengthen capacity to investigate and prosecute sexual and gender-based violence and to promote a safe environment where victims and survivors can report crimes without fear of retaliation or discrimination and to ensure that victims are protected and have access to justice and effective remedies,” she added.
Restrictions on civic space
This independent expert further expressed deep concern about continued restrictions on civic space, including harassment, arbitrary arrest, detention and imprisonment of journalists and media workers leading to self-censorship. Browser.
“ONE Safe and inclusive civic spaces are essential for good governance, rule of law and can help reduce and prevent violence,” she urged.
She added: “While I am encouraged by the appointment of members of the Somali National Media Council in its efforts to enhance the media landscape, I am also aware of concerns that this process is not aligned with media law”.
International support called for
In conclusion, Ms. Dyfan also called on the international community to continue supporting Somalia towards strengthening Federal and State institutions to promote the rule of law and human rights.
“I also call on the international community to strengthen its humanitarian response and strengthen long-term resilience to future disasters in Somalia as the country continues to face severe cyclical humanitarian and climate challenges,” she said.
Independent expert
Mrs. Dyfan was appointed Independent expert on the human rights situation in Somalia equal Eastern Human Rights Association in May 2020.
She is a member of the Council Special proceduresa group of Special Rapporteurs and other experts, tasked with monitoring and evaluating the protection and promotion of human rights in certain thematic or country situations.
Experts work voluntarily, are not UN employees and do not receive a salary.
