UNDP Backs Stronger Human Rights Oversight in Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s National Independent Human Rights Commission is set to receive further support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen its independence, institutional capacity and ability to monitor rights violations and respond to public complaints.

The support will focus on improving the commission’s working systems, accountability and transparency, as well as strengthening its capacity to document human rights concerns and produce reports.

UNDP Somalia’s new resident representative, Christophoros Politis, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to helping the commission develop into a stronger institution capable of effectively carrying out its mandate and serving the Somali public.

The commitment was discussed during talks with commission chairperson Maryan Qasim in Mogadishu, where the two sides also considered longer-term cooperation to improve the body’s performance.

A stronger complaints and monitoring system would give Somalis a more effective channel for raising concerns about alleged rights violations, while better reporting could help provide a clearer picture of the country’s human rights situation.

The push comes as Somalia continues to develop institutions intended to strengthen accountability and the rule of law. An effective independent human rights body is regarded as an important part of that process, particularly in a country facing prolonged insecurity and humanitarian pressures.

The proposed cooperation will also target the commission’s internal capacity, including its ability to monitor rights issues, manage complaints and meet its constitutional responsibilities.

Both sides agreed to continue longer-term cooperation aimed at strengthening the commission and supporting its work as an independent national institution.

The UNDP support comes through its broader engagement in Somalia on institution-building and governance, as the country works to develop public institutions capable of delivering services and protecting citizens’ rights.