Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somalia and its international partners marked Human Rights Day with a focus on the country’s notable strides in advancing and protecting human rights. The United Nations commended Somalia for its progress, particularly the passage of the Somali National Disability Rights Protection Act into law earlier this year.

Speaking at the event, the UN Secretary-General’s Acting Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, praised the milestone as a “welcome and positive step forward” for the rights of persons with disabilities.

“Somalia can rightly take pride in the Disability Rights Protection Act – it will serve to eliminate barriers to the full enjoyment of the rights of persons with disabilities and their full inclusion in society,” said Swan.
He added that the Act also provides a legal framework to support their participation in public life and access to essential services.

Strengthening Human Rights Mechanisms

In addition to the Disability Rights Act, Somalia has strengthened its cooperation with international human rights mechanisms, including the Human Rights Committee, which oversees the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This underscores the Federal Government of Somalia’s commitment to aligning national policies with global human rights standards.

Joint Programme on Human Rights

The United Nations reaffirmed its ongoing support for Somalia through the Joint Programme on Human Rights – Phase II, the only initiative of its kind in Somalia. The programme focuses on:

• Legal reforms
• Community empowerment
• Institutional capacity building

Through this programme, the UN is working with civil society organizations to enhance awareness of human rights and strengthen their capacity to constructively engage with the government in addressing human rights challenges.

Engaging Civil Society

Efforts to foster human rights dialogues have also expanded beyond traditional platforms. Civil society groups, with UN support, are amplifying human rights messaging through sports, arts, and social media to reach broader audiences and encourage community participation.

The Year’s Theme

This year’s Human Rights Day is observed under the theme: “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”. The theme highlights how human rights serve as a preventative, protective, and transformative force for addressing crises and shaping inclusive solutions.

Observed annually on 10 December, Human Rights Day marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, a cornerstone in the global fight for equality, dignity, and justice.

As Somalia continues its journey toward greater human rights protection, collaboration with international partners remains critical to overcoming challenges and ensuring a brighter, inclusive future for all Somalis.