Somalia Achieves UN Delisting on Child Recruitment in Armed Conflict

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has been officially removed from the United Nations’ list of countries where state forces recruit and use children in armed conflict, marking a key milestone in efforts to reform its security institutions.

The decision, made public by the United Nations on June 17, follows years of collaboration between the Federal Government of Somalia and international partners, including UNICEF and the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS).

The progress stems from the implementation of Somalia’s National Action Plan on the Protection of Children in Armed Conflict, developed in line with the national constitution and international conventions.

“This is a historic achievement for the Somali people and security forces,” the Ministry of Defence said in a statement. “It reflects our strong commitment to protect vulnerable children and build a professional, accountable national army.”

Somalia’s security forces had previously been listed by the UN for recruiting child soldiers during conflict. Delisting signals that verifiable steps have been taken to end the practice and prevent future violations, a move welcomed by child protection advocates.

As chair of the National Committee on the Protection of Children in Armed Conflict, the Ministry praised the role of committee members and UN agencies in strengthening child protection mechanisms and enforcing safeguards in military recruitment and training.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to uphold all agreements with the UN on child protection, while vowing to continue efforts to defeat the militant group Al-Shabaab, which it accused of systematically targeting Somali children.