Mogadishu, Somalia | February 2026
The Center for Human Rights Studies in Somalia (CHRSS) welcomes the significant progress toward the full operationalization of the Independent Human Rights Commission (IHRC). At a pivotal moment in Somalia’s security and political transition, the establishment of a credible, effective, and autonomous human rights institution is both timely and essential.
We commend the recent election of the Commission’s leadership, including the historic inclusion and representation of Persons with Disabilities. This milestone reflects a positive commitment to inclusivity and national ownership of the human rights agenda.
However, the credibility of the IHRC will ultimately depend on its ability to function in full independence, free from executive or political interference. For the Commission to earn and sustain the trust of the Somali people, it must operate transparently, impartially, and in strict compliance with the Paris Principles relating to the status of national human rights institutions.
Key Recommendations from CHRSS
1. Safeguard Legal and Financial Autonomy
We urge the Federal Government of Somalia to guarantee the IHRC’s institutional and budgetary independence. Adequate and protected funding mechanisms are essential to ensure the Commission can execute its mandate without undue influence or fear of financial reprisal.
2. Protect the Civic Space
The Commission must publicly affirm that freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association are non-negotiable constitutional rights.
3. Stand With Human Rights Defenders (HRDs)
Human rights defenders, journalists, women activists, and youth leaders must see the Commission as their protector
4. Promote Marginalized Voices
Civic space must be inclusive. The Commission must ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities in all processes, prioritize women’s participation in public decision-making and advocate for protection of minority communities facing discrimination.
5. Institutionalize Inclusive Civil Society Engagement
The IHRC must establish sustained and structured engagement with civil society organizations (CSOs), grassroots human rights defenders, and community-based networks. These actors remain indispensable partners in documenting violations and promoting accountability at the local level.
The Center for Human Rights Studies in Somalia reaffirms its readiness to provide technical expertise, research support, and policy guidance to strengthen the work of the Independent Human Rights Commission.
We firmly believe that a genuinely independent and effective human rights institution is foundational to Somalia’s long-term stability and democratic development, and central to realizing the aspirations of the Somalia Centennial Vision 2060, where justice, equality, and human dignity are guaranteed for every citizen.