Somalia Makes Major Leap on Human Rights as President Signs Law Establishing Independent Commission

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia is highlighting a major step in strengthening its governance pillars after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed into law the establishment of the Independent National Human Rights Commission.

The announcement comes as the country reflects on Human Rights Day, giving fresh momentum to a process long envisaged under Article 111B of the Provisional Constitution.

The signing underscores the government’s intention to build credible, independent institutions that safeguard the dignity and rights of Somali citizens. Speaking at the event in Mogadishu, President Hassan Sheikh noted that the creation of the Commission represents a deliberate political commitment to advance human rights protections nationwide. He commended the strong collaboration between both Houses of Parliament and the Cabinet, which ensured that the law aligns with Somalia’s legal framework, religious values and international human rights obligations.

The Commission, as outlined in the Constitution, will have key responsibilities. These include investigating and reporting on the observance of human rights, taking steps to secure appropriate redress where violations occur, conducting research, and educating both the public and state officials on international human rights standards. Its detailed powers and activities will be further defined in the Human Rights Commission Act.

With this law now in place, Somalia is taking a tangible step toward a governance system grounded in fairness, accountability and the protection of fundamental rights. It marks an important victory for citizens seeking stronger legal safeguards and supports the broader national effort to build modern, independent oversight institutions.