Supported by Medico International, the training convened in Mogadishu from 30–31 December 2025 and brought together 10 local reporters from across Somalia and Somaliland, areas acutely affected by climate change. Thirty percent of the participants were women.

Nurto Mohamed Hassan, a journalist with Radio Warsan in Baidoa, South West State, described the training’s impact on her reporting.

“This training has transformed how I approach climate reporting. I now go beyond disaster coverage to produce stories that connect climate impacts with governance, accountability, and practical solutions,” she said.

Shukri Abi Abdi of Shabelle Media in Mogadishu highlighted the broader scope of climate reporting: “Climate change reporting is ultimately about people and justice. This program equipped us with practical tools to question policies, track climate-related actions, and show how vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected.”

Somalia currently hosts approximately four million people—about 20% of the population—in refugee or displacement camps. Human-induced climate change made the 2022–2023 drought 100 times more likely, leading to an estimated 43,000 excess deaths.

Journalists in Somalia and Somaliland often operate on the frontlines of crises, including environmental disasters, under extremely challenging conditions. Limited safety, restricted access to data, lack of editorial support, and threats from powerful actors benefiting from environmental exploitation severely constrain their ability to report on climate issues effectively.

Over the past two years, with support from Medico International, SJS has built a network of local journalists reporting on communities’ struggles to cope with climate shocks.

This training is a direct response to the challenges faced by Somali journalists. It aims to bridge knowledge gaps, enhance safety, and strengthen the professional capacity of reporters to deliver consistent, impactful coverage on climate change and climate justice. In the coming two years, SJS program will build on earlier initiatives that enhanced journalist resilience, freedom of expression, and protection mechanisms.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin emphasized the initiative’s broader significance of this program is to contributes to the global effort to promote climate justice, empowering the most vulnerable communities to tell their stories and help shape solutions through media reporting.

“Climate change reporting is not just about telling stories—it is about saving lives and providing communities with timely information to guide their daily decisions,” Abdalle Mumin said.

Mr. Mumin added, “Recurrent droughts, severe flooding, environmental degradation, and unpredictable rainfall continue to threaten livelihoods, food security, and stability. This underscores the critical need for informed, professional climate journalism to support public understanding and policy accountability. The training deepened participants’ understanding of climate change and climate justice while equipping them with practical skills for accurate, ethical, and impactful reporting.”

Following the training, participants will continue to receive ongoing mentorship, guidance, and support to strengthen their future reporting on climate issues. Through this mentorship program, SJS aims to develop a strong network of climate-informed journalists capable of contributing meaningfully to public discourse and supporting climate resilience across Somalia and Somaliland.

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The ceremony, held on International Human Rights Day, December 10, marked a historic moment for SJS and for Somalia’s media freedom movement. On behalf of SJS, the local Tulip Award was received by SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

This recognition comes only three years after SJS endured one of its darkest periods. In Mogadishu, the SJS office was violently raided; its Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, was abducted, tortured, and held in an inhumane underground cell. What followed was prolonged persecution and a sham trial designed to intimidate the voices defending press freedom and human rights in Somalia.

Yet, three years later—far from the dangers of Mogadishu and in the heart of The Hague—SJS delegates were warmly welcomed and celebrated. Standing alongside ten renowned human rights defenders and organizations from around the world, representing diverse languages, contexts, and struggles, we reaffirmed a universal truth: human rights are inalienable rights for all people.

This statement was echoed by the Netherlands Human Rights Ambassador, Wim Geerts, who stated that “justice and peace can only be achieved when there is respect for human rights.”

As the world marks the 77th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the position of SJS remains firm. Our resilience is rooted in an unshakeable conviction that truth, dignity, and justice are worth defending—regardless of the cost. Even when silenced, targeted, and dragged before hostile courts, SJS refused to abandon its mission.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious award. For the Somali Journalists Syndicate, this recognition represents not only our members but the entire Somali journalism community. It inspires us to double our efforts and continue our work with even greater determination,” said SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim.

“The tulip award achievement is not only ours—it is a victory for human rights defenders across the globe, especially those working under threat, in conflict zones, and in the most challenging environments,” added Mr. Ibrahim.

SJS expresses its sincere gratitude to the Human Rights Tulip organizers, the Dutch government, and the welcoming people of the Netherlands. We congratulate all fellow Tulip Award winners from Sudan, Yemen, Palestine, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Colombia, Chile, Hungry and Ukraine.

SJS representatives and members of the Mogadishu media community had the opportunity to engage with Ambassador Charles King, who recently assumed his role as the new UK Ambassador to Somalia.

“Welcome to Somalia — where democracy does not work and where media freedom does not exist,” said SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, in his opening remarks.

SJS expressed deep concern over the threats posed by both Al-Shabaab and the Somali Federal Government to press freedom, stressing the serious impact these threats have had on journalists.

“Journalists cannot operate in Al-Shabaab-controlled areas, while the Somali government has now adopted similar tactics to block media reporting. NISA officers are increasingly patrolling Maka al-Mukarama Road — the only road in Mogadishu where people once felt safe — and it is no longer safe now,” Bulbul added.

SJS also reported an increase in attacks in Somaliland. So far in 2025, SJS has documented over 80 cases of journalist arrests, restrictions, and other violations in Somalia and Somaliland.

A matter of particular concern raised by media directors during the meeting was that some Mogadishu media outlets “were bribed and coerced into signing agreements” that allegedly prohibited critical reporting on the disputed electoral body’s activities. These activities have included multiple reported incidents of kidnappings of vulnerable members of the local community and forced voter registration.

Similarly, forced evictions in Mogadishu are going largely unreported. Thousands of vulnerable families have been forcibly removed from their homes by armed government forces allegedly linked to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Journalists are now saying the government has promised “plot of land and money” to bribe certain media owners in exchange for suppressing coverage of these forced evictions.

SJS underscored that the recent attacks on journalists, arbitrary arrests, restrictions on reporting forced evictions, and forced voter registration in Mogadishu constitute human rights violations. SJS stresses that perpetrators should be held accountable regardless of their position or the weapons they possess.

SJS further noted that some journalists face pressure from their own media owners, who themselves have been compromised.

The outdated Somali Penal Code and the so-called Counter-Terrorism Bill remain major tools used to suppress reporting on security issues — all while Al-Shabaab militant group has intensified its terror attacks in and around Mogadishu.

SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, welcomed the candid and constructive exchange between the UK Ambassador and the Somali media community as a valuable platform to address urgent press freedom concerns.

“This discussion was a rare opportunity for Somali journalists to speak directly and openly with an international partner about the daily realities we face. Press freedom in Somalia is under unprecedented pressure — from both armed groups and state institutions — and we need stronger international support to protect journalists, uphold the public’s right to know, and defend our democracy,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

Ambassador Charles King stated UK’s commitment to support free, safe, and independent journalism in Somalia.

“Powerful voices, empowering conversations. Today’s roundtable with Somali journalists shone a light on the progress and challenges in protecting #MediaFreedom. The UK proudly stands with Somalia press — free, safe, and independent journalism is vital for democracy,” Ambassador King posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Held in the divided city of Galkayo—a hotspot of inter-clan tensions and climate-driven displacement—the workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including journalists, social media influencers, clan elders, women leaders, youth activists, religious scholars, IDP representatives, persons with disabilities, and officials from both Puntland and Galmudug regional states.

Mudug, located in central Somalia, remains one of the most conflict-prone regions in the country. Divided between Puntland (north) and Galmudug (south), with Galkayo also split between the two, the region suffers from overlapping jurisdictions, governance disputes, and cyclical violence.

The worsening climate crisis—especially recurrent droughts—continues to deepen the region’s vulnerability. Water and pasture scarcity have triggered deadly clashes between communities, displaced thousands, and pushed many young people into irregular migration. Women and youth are disproportionately affected, with more than 75% of gender-based violence (GBV) cases reported in IDP settlements where psychosocial services are minimal or nonexistent.

SJS documentation shows Galkayo has been the second deadliest city for journalists in Somalia over the past decade, after Mogadishu. Crimes against journalists are rarely prosecuted, and impunity remains a serious concern.

The SJS/Baraarug workshop aimed to explore how local media and civic voices can support peace rather than perpetuate division.

Hassan Abdirahman Aden, Director of Media at Galmudug’s Ministry of Information and Culture, reflected on how local media in the past contributed to conflict by aligning with clan interests:

“At the beginning of the conflict in this region, media platforms were used to fuel tensions because they operated along clan lines. But today, we are witnessing a shift—local journalists are giving space to peace initiatives. The media no longer incites violence here. Instead, social media has become the new source of division,” he said.

Participants also raised concerns over the rise of unregulated social media content and influencers whose behavior risks inciting division.

Voices of Women, Youth, and Elders

Women participants shared powerful testimonies about their evolving role in peacebuilding.

Habiibo Mohamud Abdi, Chair of the Galkayo Women’s Peace Committee, said:

“Initially, women were excluded from peace talks. Clan elders didn’t see us as relevant negotiators. But later, when 13 women from each side—Galmudug and Puntland—were included at the table, real peace began. Women were the key to achieving Galkayo’s current stability.”

Clan elder Abdukadir Ali Igal emphasized that most inter-clan fighting stems from disputes over land and resources:

“When we the clan elders say ‘go to war,’ youth follow. When we say ‘stop,’ they stop. The root causes are known to us, and the responsibility lies with us to decide between peace and war. That’s just the reality.”

But beyond clan dynamics, participants pointed to weak state institutions and widespread corruption as deeper structural causes of conflict.

Mohamed Sa’id Mohamud, a youth leader and co-founder of the Mudug Peace and Development Forum, highlighted the absence of state leadership:

“State collapse is why conflict keeps returning. Youth and women were excluded from the 2015 and 2016 peace agreements in Galkayo. However, in 2017, we youth forced our way in and joined hands across clan elders. That’s what led to the peace we enjoy today.”

Call to Action: Women’s Rights & Civic Media

MP Ibaado Yusuf Ahmed, one of the few women sitting in the Galmudug State Assembly, urged the media to do more in promoting civic education and gender equality:

“Women are still denied equal participation. Even in parliament, it’s a struggle. I call on the media to amplify women’s voices and support civic advocacy.”

The Secretary General of SJS, Abdalle Mumin stated:

“In a region marked by division and hardship, the role of independent, responsible journalism has never been more critical. Through our Baraarug Campaign, we are empowering journalists, women, and youth to become catalysts for peace, inclusion, and the defense of civic rights. Only by working together can we build a stable and just for all Somalis.”

The Baraarug Campaign, led by SJS in collaboration with Somali civil society groups, aims to amplify youth and women’s voices in civic life using digital platforms and creative storytelling. It aligns with the Dutch Human Rights Policy, promoting civic awareness, gender equality, and freedom of expression—core values for democratic accountability.

Launched in December 2024, Baraarug empowers young Somalis to express themselves, advocate for inclusion, and mobilize both local and international solidarity for positive change.

More information about Baraarug visit our dedicated webpage: www.sjsyndicate.org/baraarug

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The award was announced on Tuesday night at a ceremony held in New York, USA, celebrating individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership, courage, and commitment to transparency, human rights, and the fight against corruption.

The award event was opened with a keynote speech by Sarah Chayes — an award-winning journalist, author, and former advisor to the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff — renowned for her expertise on corruption. In her address, she emphasized the importance of supporting anti-corruption efforts worldwide.

The Allard Prize for International Integrity is one of the world’s most significant honours dedicated to combating corruption and promoting human rights. Established in 2012 by Canadian human rights lawyer Peter A. Allard, the award continues to uplift and spotlight those who risk their lives in the fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice.

SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim stated:

“The entire Somali Journalists Syndicate team and the broader human rights movement in Somalia proudly congratulate our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, for this well-deserved international recognition. Abdalle is not only a journalist who has repeatedly risked his life to speak the truth and hold the corrupt powerful accountable, but he is also a leader who has shown unwavering commitment to press freedom and human rights in Somalia. He truly deserves this award.”

This becomes Abdalle’s second major international recognition. In 2013, he was honoured for his outstanding human rights photojournalism work in Somalia. The 2025 Allard Prize is a testament to his continued courage and leadership.

Mr. Ibrahim further added:

“This recognition inspires all of us at SJS. It demonstrates that, despite the grave challenges Abdalle and our organization have faced — from harassment and arrests to threats and exile — we are not alone. The global community sees and values our work. That gives us the strength to go the extra mile.”

“For us at SJS, and for journalists across Somalia and around the world who are working under threats, intimidation, and censorship, this award is more than a recognition — it is a powerful message. It affirms that journalism matters. It reinforces our belief that fighting corruption, exposing abuse of power, and standing for human rights is not in vain. It gives visibility, hope, and encouragement to every reporter who dares to ask hard questions.”

Abdullahi Hassan of Amnesty International stated that “Abdalle Mumin and the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) have done extraordinary work in defending press freedom and advancing human rights in Somalia. Abdalle, in particular, has been severely persecuted for this.”

Muthoki Mumo of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), in a video interview, also emphasized the importance of press freedom and the safety of journalists. She described the work of Abdalle and SJS as that of “an active press freedom advocate.” Muthoki also noted that CPJ has documented the killing of over 80 journalists in Somalia since 1992 — a stark reminder of the grave risks journalists continue to face.

In his acceptance speech, delivered via video link, Abdalle Mumin said:

“For over twenty years, I have put my life on the line for one belief: that journalism can expose corruption, demand accountability, and protect the rights of the voiceless. In Somalia, that belief isn’t just tested — it’s life-threatening. Tonight, I am deeply humbled to receive the Allard Prize award. It is not only a recognition of my work with the Somali Journalists Syndicate, but of the power of journalism to challenge kleptocracy, injustice, and fear.”

SJS extends its sincere thanks to the Allard Prize team, the organisers, staff, and Prize Committee for their tireless work in supporting integrity, transparency, and the protection of human rights defenders across the world.

The symposium, titled “About the Disappearance of a World“, focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses.

SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin participated as a panelist, emphasizing that the climate crisis is not just an environmental concern, but also a manifestation of historical and ongoing global power imbalances. He illustrated this with the example of the 2021 floods in Germany that claimed over 180 lives and triggered billions in recovery aid, compared to the 2022 drought in Somalia which killed 43,000 people—mostly children—with far less international attention.

“Yet climate-linked migration is often framed as a security threat in Europe and beyond, justifying walls, detention, and militarization, rather than addressing the root causes,” said Mr. Mumin.

Somalia remains one of the countries most severely affected by the climate crisis, with millions forced into displacement after losing their livelihoods. Floods and recurrent droughts continue to claim lives—mostly among vulnerable groups such as women and children.

Since 2022, SJS has partnered with Medico International to train more than 60 local journalists—including those from communities directly affected by floods in southern and central Somalia—to report on climate change and raise awareness around climate justice.

Journalists, including those within the SJS network, have also been victimized by recurrent droughts and floods, often compounded by ongoing conflicts.

This SJS-Medico International initiative not only engaged journalists and media professionals but also brought together local authorities, community leaders, and human rights defenders to seek solutions to this persistent crisis.

“Journalists play a critical role in shaping climate policy, raising awareness among local communities—including displaced persons—and assisting them in developing mitigation and adaptation strategies,” added Mr. Mumin. “When empowered, the media’s influence on public opinion is substantial, and how climate issues are reported and understood directly impacts the discourse and the solutions provided to affected communities.”

At the Frankfurt symposium, discussions also highlighted the massive budget cuts in climate action and the increasing securitization of climate-induced migration.

However, one powerful outcome was a renewed call for global solidarity and a reminder that hope must not be lost. Journalists were recognized for their role in ensuring that the world does not silently disappear.

“I believe our greatest task is to ask ourselves how we can be better humans—to each other, to our communities, to those forced to flee, and to our disappearing world,” Mr. Mumin added “In a time where rising seas erase coastlines, where families are displaced by conflict and climate, and where walls are built faster than bridges—it’s easy to feel hopeless. But journalists can, and must, carry this responsibility effectively.”

The final message concluded with Mr. Mumin reciting a verse from a song by the renowned Somali singer, the late Luul Jeylani, who more than three decades ago poignantly connected themes of love, sustenance, and human appreciation. She sang:

‘A man who plants sorghum in a pit, will reap it when the rains fall, he will not lose it.

It is only right to appreciate each other. The favor you showed me, I’ve cherished with.

Is it fair for me to cut ties with you?’

SJS extends its sincere gratitude to Medico International for organizing this impactful symposium. We also deeply appreciate the warm welcome and rich exchanges with fellow journalists, academics, NGO leaders, and solidarity groups during the event in Frankfurt.

SJS is deeply honored that our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. [Read finalists here]

Beyond his role at SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin has relentlessly dedicated his life to defending press freedom, promoting transparency, and standing up for human rights in Somalia—often at grave personal risk. He has faced imprisonment, torture, threats, and endless persecution simply for speaking truth to power.

“Abdalle Mumin was imprisoned because of his unwavering commitment to defending human rights and press freedom in Somalia. His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” said Mohamed Ibrahim, President of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). “Abdalle’s courage fuels a new generation of truth-tellers and justice seekers. His recognition not only honors his sacrifice but also reinforces SJS’s commitment to our critical mission—pursuing press freedom, defending journalists, and promoting human rights with even greater determination and resilience.”

His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” – Mohamed Ibrahim, SJS President.

“Let us be absolutely clear: If Abdalle Mumin wins this award, it will be a resounding recognition of his bravery, unwavering dedication, and personal sacrifice in defense of human rights, government accountability, and media freedom. It will undoubtedly inspire thousands of journalists and human rights defenders across Somalia and beyond,” adds Mr. Ibrahim. “Moreover, it will send an unmistakable message to those who seek to silence truth and oppress freedom—that the world is watching, and it stands firmly with those who dare to speak out.”

The entire SJS network of journalists and community of defenders stand proudly beside our Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, and reaffirms our unwavering commitment to advancing press freedom, protecting journalists, and promoting human rights.  We also extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Abdalle on this remarkable recognition.

The Allard Prize, named after Peter A. Allard, a Canadian lawyer and renowned human rights champion, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and courage in combating corruption and defending human rights.

The Allard Prize Award Ceremony will be held on June 17, 2025, at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City, U.S, where the winner will receive a $100,000 CAD prize.

This initiative, supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), seeks to enhance the skills and awareness of female reporters, particularly in documenting and reporting human rights issues.

Between January 29–30, SJS hosted 10 women journalists from Mogadishu, Hirshabelle, Southwest State, and the Gedo region for an intensive two-day workshop in Mogadishu.

The training focused on improving safety and security measures, producing high-quality journalism on gender-related issues, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

Sawsar Sheikh Faadil, a journalist with RTN TV Mogadishu, highlighted the importance of the safety protocols covered during the training.

“For me, security was a major concern. As a female reporter who goes out every day in search of stories, I benefited greatly from learning the necessary safety and security protocols,” she said. “I am grateful to the trainers and hope for more training opportunities in the future.”

SJS put significant effort into selecting participants who would benefit the most from this program, particularly those from marginalized communities and conflict-affected regions.

Overcoming Challenges in Conflict Zones

Kawsar Abdirahman Barkhadle, a reporter from Radio Gedo, traveled to Mogadishu for the training despite the ongoing conflict between Jubaland state authorities and the federal government. Her hometown, Beled-Hawo, like many in Gedo, remains under threat from Al-Shabaab militants, posing severe risks to journalists.

Being a female journalist comes with additional risks in Somalia’s patriarchal society, where women are often discouraged from pursuing male-dominated careers.

“When I started as a radio presenter in 2021, my parents urged me to quit. Society still struggles to accept women in certain professions,” Kawsar explained. “This training equipped me with advocacy skills, and I urge SJS to expand these sessions to reach more women in remote areas.”

Nurto Mohamed Hussein, a Radio Warsan reporter from Baidoa, said the training allowed her to connect with other female journalists and exchange experiences.

“During the workshop, I networked with women reporters facing similar challenges—low pay, safety concerns, and working in male-dominated media houses,” Nurto said.

During the training, Nurto took the opportunity to interview fellow participants, documenting their struggles in a report later published by Kaab TV.

In addition to hands-on training, SJS mentors journalists in developing impactful stories about their communities. When newsroom editors dismiss such stories, SJS advocates for their publication.

“This training program has been one of our biggest achievements since 2021, thanks to CFLI’s continued support,” said SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin. “Changing the status quo for women journalists takes time and persistence. That’s why we must sustain and build on these efforts.”

Women make up 20% of Somalia’s professional journalists and are among the lowest paid, often earning less than their male counterparts for equal work. Many lack essential skills such as video and audio editing and access to equipment like computers, cameras, and voice recorders, making them more vulnerable to exploitation including sexual advances and harassment.

“When we listen to our female trainees, they share painful experiences of harassment and challenges in performing their duties,” SJS Secretary General Mumin said. “That’s why SJS has rented a studio and provided equipment for women journalists to produce their own stories. We are proud to support vulnerable female reporters and will continue these efforts.”

As part of its commitment to human rights and press freedom in Somalia, SJS records casualties, including those of journalists.

By joining this global network of like-minded organizations, SJS aims to highlight the systematic attacks on freedom of expression and the broader human rights violations in the country. This includes shedding light, through SJS network of human rights journalists, on casualties among minority communities and marginalized groups, whose suffering often goes unreported.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin hailed this as a significant achievement for both SJS and the Somali journalism community in 2025.

“The Casualty Recorders Network serves as a vital platform for organizations to exchange knowledge, support one another, and collaborate on research and advocacy initiatives. By joining this network, SJS gains valuable opportunities to enhance its capacity while also amplifying the plight of journalists in Somalia, who endure persistent threats yet often go unnoticed,” said Mr. Mumin.

The Casualty Recorders Network members benefit from access to specialized resources, peer-to-peer training programs, expert-led webinars, and ad-hoc advisory support.

Additionally, they have opportunities to participate in Human Rights Council sessions and other United Nations events, facilitated by Every Casualty Counts, which holds ECOSOC Special Consultative Status.

One of the network’s primary objectives is to enhance the quality and impact of casualty recording efforts worldwide by promoting standardized methods for documenting and verifying casualty data—an area in which SJS is actively striving for improvement.

“By highlighting these violations, SJS seeks to amplify the voices of the media community and those who are often overlooked. We are pleased to join the Casualty Recorders Network and look forward to making meaningful contributions,” Mr. Mumin concluded.

The event, inaugurated by the Minister of Justice of Puntland, H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab, brought together representatives from diverse sectors, including the Puntland Police, the Puntland Media Association (MAP), human rights defenders, Midnimo Women Network, and the Puntland Non-State Actors’ Association (PUNSA).

H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab highlighted Puntland’s progress in advancing human rights through legislative reforms and institutional strengthening.

“Somalia has yet to fully learn from the violations of the past, such as killings and detentions that defied human rights principles. However, in Puntland, we have made significant strides. We have enacted human rights laws, implemented child protection legislation, and strengthened judicial institutions to safeguard citizens’ rights,” he stated.

Emphasizing democratic participation as a fundamental right, the minister added, “We have entrusted Puntland’s future to its citizens through elections, allowing them to exercise their voice and take part in decision-making. Puntland remains committed to defending and promoting human rights.”

Naimo Muse Elmi, Secretary of MAP, emphasized the pivotal role of the media in advocating for human rights.

“All people are equal; no one is superior in dignity or honor to another. The media has a duty to uphold this principle. I commend the Puntland media for their prominent role in defending human rights,” she remarked.

SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Bulbul, speaking at the panel stressed the importance of protecting journalists within the broader human rights context.

“Journalists in our country play a crucial role in defending human rights, and this contribution is visible. Society must recognize that defending journalists is equivalent to defending the public interest and all other rights,” he stated.

The panel also addressed the challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women, in Puntland. Ifrah Abdi Nur from Midnimo Women Network highlighted the severe underrepresentation of women in politics.

“The violations we face are numerous, but one of the most glaring issues is the lack of women’s participation in politics. For instance, there is only one woman in the current Puntland Parliament, which itself is a violation of equal representation in the government,” she said.

Said Mumin, from Puntland Human Rights Defenders, outlined persistent human rights abuses in the region.

“Violations such as sexual violence, torture, killings, and human trafficking remain prevalent. Citizens are often denied their basic rights, and addressing these issues requires collective action from both the government and society,” he explained.

Puntland police officer, Abdi Darwiish, reaffirmed to the panel that the government’s dedication to upholding human rights in Puntland.

“Puntland is not among the regions where gross violations occur rampantly. The rule of law and judicial processes are functional here. However, there remains much issues to address, especially in cases involving human rights abuses in Puntland,” he noted, “As the police in Puntland We are working to improve the situation of the human rights.”

Participants from various sectors of the society—including journalists, representatives of the internally displaced community, women’s groups, youth representatives, police, human rights activists, and business leaders—raised critical questions about the state of freedoms in Puntland.

Key issues discussed included arbitrary detentions of government critics, including journalists, the stigmatization of people living with HIV, lack of access to education for the displaced people, and discrimination against minority groups and women in employment opportunities.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin thanked the Puntland police and civil society members who participated in the panel discussion, which was also broadcast on local media, for their openness in addressing challenging questions from the public.

“I thank everyone who participated in the panel discussion. Indeed, when people come together and have the ability to discuss important issues affecting their community, it brings a sense of cohesion, unity, and healing. I hope the Puntland government will address the key issues raised during the discussion, and that we will see closer cooperation between the government and its people to improve the human rights situation,” Mr. Mumin added.

The event, supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), concluded with a call for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address human rights challenges, ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all citizens in Puntland and Somalia.