Narrative Report
Recognition of the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD) by the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders.
Mary Lawlor, during her time as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders, consistently used her platform to highlight the important work done by human rights defenders around the world.
Somali WHRD in her Routine Work (image2)
In Somalia, her reports provided rare international visibility to the commendable work of the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD). This aligned their efforts with both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
One achievement highlighted was the Coalition’s innovative approach to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. CSHRD supported rural and excluded communities in obtaining affordable credit. By launching microcredit programs and providing small loans along with financial literacy training, CSHRD empowered individuals, especially women and marginalized groups. This allowed them to start small businesses, improve household income, and build community resilience.
https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=953829290095242&id=100064045387133
These initiatives strengthened financial inclusion, built local trust, and encouraged collaboration across communities. They contributed directly to the global commitment of leaving no one behind.
Mary Lawlor’s recognition of these efforts, both in her reports and on public platforms, validated CSHRD’s work internationally and broadened its reach. Her acknowledgment proved that even in fragile and high-risk areas like Somalia, human rights defenders drive sustainable development and peace. Though her term as Special Rapporteur has concluded, her support remains a significant part of CSHRD’s history, and her contributions will be remembered with appreciation.
This international visibility grew stronger with the visit of the Swedish Ambassador to Somalia, based in Mogadishu, and the First Secretary of the Swedish Embassy in 2021. Their presence at CSHRD’s office showed strong diplomatic support for human rights advocacy in Somalia. Sweden’s diplomatic engagement motivated the Coalition to continue its mission despite challenges and attracted new allies to its cause. Sweden’s acknowledgment highlighted the importance of CSHRD’s work, signaling to both the Somali public and the international community that defending human rights is critical for sustainable peace and development.
Today, the memory of Mary Lawlor’s recognition and Sweden’s visit serves as a source of pride and motivation for the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders. Together, these moments form part of a bigger story: that solidarity, through the words of a UN mandate holder or the presence of a supportive ambassador, can empower local defenders to make a global impact.
CSHRD Advocacy Team