UK Backs Somalia’s Human Rights Commitments
The United Kingdom has urged Somalia to maintain its commitment to strengthening human rights protections as the country moves from international review to implementation of recommendations made earlier this year.
Speaking during the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UK welcomed Somalia’s acceptance of all three recommendations put forward by Britain during Somalia’s Universal Periodic Review.
The UK said it remained committed to supporting Somalia as it works to implement those recommendations.
Britain Calls For Continued UN Engagement
The British government stressed that international scrutiny and assistance should continue despite changes to the UN’s involvement in Somalia.
It said the conclusion of the Independent Expert’s mandate and the closure of the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia should not result in reduced international attention or monitoring of the country’s human rights situation.
Britain encouraged Somalia to maintain close cooperation with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the wider UN human rights system.
New Human Rights Commission Welcomed
The UK also welcomed Somalia’s establishment of a National Independent Human Rights Commission, describing it as an important development in strengthening the country’s human rights framework.
However, Britain urged the Federal Government of Somalia to provide the necessary support to ensure the commission can operate independently and effectively.
The call comes as Somalia continues efforts to develop institutions capable of monitoring and protecting fundamental rights.
Concerns Over Protection Of Children
A major concern raised by the UK involved Somalia’s approach to the legal age of children.
Britain expressed concern over reported distinctions between the age of “maturity” and the age of “responsibility”, stressing that international standards require children to receive protection until they reach the age of 18.
The UK urged Somalia to ensure that the rights of every person under 18 are fully protected under national law.
Draft Penal Code Draws Criticism
The UK also raised concerns about elements of Somalia’s draft Penal Code, warning that some provisions could undermine existing human rights protections.
According to the British government, the proposed legislation could potentially weaken safeguards for children while also placing restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom.
Britain argued that aspects of the draft code may not fully comply with Somalia’s international human rights obligations.
UK Urges Stronger Legal Safeguards
The British delegation called on Somalia to ensure that the Penal Code and related legislation are designed to strengthen rights rather than weaken them.
The intervention underlined the UK’s continued interest in Somalia’s human rights reforms, while also signalling that implementation of commitments will remain an important focus for international partners.
The UK said continued cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms would be essential as Somalia moves forward with its reform agenda.
