Somalia Human Rights Situation
Quarterly Report II, 2024
01/07/2024
Mogadishu – Somalia
Email: info@chsrds.org / programs@cshrds.org
Contents
Introduction
Executive Summary
Press Freedom Updates
The Civic Space Situation
The War on Al-Shabab
Civilians under Attack
Displacements & Humanitarian Assistance
Sexual & Gender Based Violence GBV
Violation against Children
Somaliland
Recommendations
Conclusion
The Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD)
Somalia Human Rights Situation Quarterly Report II, 2024
Introduction
The Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD) is committed to monitoring, documenting, and advocating for the protection of human rights across Somalia. This quarterly report for 2024 aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current human rights situation, highlight key issues, and propose actionable recommendations for stakeholders.
Methodology
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our findings, CSHRD employed a multi-faceted methodology:
1. Data Collection: Information was gathered through field visits, interviews with victims and witnesses, and collaboration with local human rights organizations. Additionally, secondary data from credible sources such as governmental reports, international organizations, and media outlets were analyzed.
2. Verification: Collected data underwent rigorous verification processes. Cross-checking with multiple sources was conducted to confirm the authenticity of reported incidents.
3. Analysis: The verified data were analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and key areas of concern. Statistical tools and qualitative methods were utilized to interpret the findings comprehensively.
4. Reporting: The final report was compiled to present a balanced and accurate representation of the human rights situation. Case studies and testimonials are included to provide personal perspectives on the issues.
Executive Summary
The second quarter of 2024 has been marked by significant human rights challenges in Somalia. Key findings include:
1. Conflict-Related Violations: Ongoing conflicts between armed groups and government forces have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, displacement, and destruction of property. There have been reports of indiscriminate attacks, extrajudicial killings, and forced recruitment of children by armed groups.
2. Freedom of Expression: Journalists and human rights defenders continue to face harassment, intimidation, and violence. Several instances of arbitrary arrests and detentions have been documented, hindering the freedom of the press and expression.
3. Gender-Based Violence: Incidents of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) remain alarmingly high. Women and girls are particularly vulnerable, with many cases going unreported due to fear of stigma and lack of access to justice.
4. Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis: The ongoing conflict and natural disasters, such as droughts, have exacerbated the displacement crisis. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) face severe living conditions, limited access to basic services, and heightened protection risks.
5. Access to Justice: The judicial system continues to struggle with capacity and integrity issues. Many victims of human rights abuses are unable to seek justice due to corruption, lack of resources, and insecurity.
Somalia Press Freedom Update
Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression Situation in Somalia from April to June 2024
During this period, Somalia’s press freedom and freedom of expression situation remained challenging. Several incidents and trends indicate a continued clampdown on critical reporting and a restrictive environment for journalists.
Arrests and Detentions: In July 2024, journalist Mohamed Salah was arrested for reporting on the suspension of licenses for aid organizations by the Somali state of Puntland. This incident followed the detention of another journalist in April, highlighting the ongoing practice of harassing and arbitrarily detaining journalists.
Criminal Charges: The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) had its bank accounts frozen in April, allegedly at the request of Somalia’s attorney general, citing defamation and false documentation. This move sent a chilling message to journalists, threatening their funding and ability to operate.
Intimidation and Threats: The Ministry of Information and the Somali government in Mogadishu attempted to intimidate the SJS by freezing its accounts and threatening to revoke its funding. This pattern of using criminal law to intimidate journalists has been ongoing since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s first term in power (2012-2017) and must be addressed.
Restrictions on Reporting: The authorities in Somaliland continued to restrict freedom of expression and media. In May, journalist Bushaaro Ali Mohamed was arrested and later sentenced to one year in prison for allegedly tarnishing the image of state institutions.
Lack of Progress on Humanitarian Assistance: The humanitarian situation in Somalia remained dire, with funding for assistance still underfunded (only 36% funded as of writing). This lack of support exacerbates the challenges faced by journalists and civil society organizations.
Somalia Civil Society Update
During this period, civil society organizations in Somalia continued to face challenges amidst ongoing political and security tensions. Here are some key developments:
Humanitarian efforts: Civil society groups, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), worked closely with the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Federal Member States to provide humanitarian assistance, particularly in response to the drought and its effects. Cash transfers and multipurpose cash assistance reached at least 493,000 people (18% of the target) between January and June 2024.
Conflict and displacement: The offensive against Al-Shabab, launched by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in 2022, led to civilian displacement. In March, the president announced a new offensive in southern Somalia, and in June, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) withdrew 2,000 of its estimated 20,000 forces as part of its expected withdrawal by late 2024. Clashes between security forces and armed opposition groups occurred in Puntland’s capital, Garowe, in June, resulting in civilian casualties.
Political tensions: The National Consultative Council emphasized the need for constitutional amendments, including one-person, one-vote elections, and urged federal member states to refrain from politicizing national issues. President Mohamud called on Puntland to return to the National Consultative Council and maintained that the Provisional Constitution would remain open to further amendments until a referendum is held.
Regional developments: The President of “Somaliland”, Muse Bihi Abdi, signed amended laws regulating organizations and political parties, as well as electoral and voter registration laws, on 9 March. Elections in “Somaliland” were scheduled for 13 November 2024.
Despite these challenges, civil society organizations continued to play a crucial role in addressing humanitarian needs, advocating for human rights, and promoting peace and stability in Somalia. However, their efforts were hindered by the ongoing conflict, political tensions, and limited access to affected areas.
The War on Al-Shabab
Al-Shabab’s Source of Income and Arms
Al-Shabaab, a militant group based in Somalia, funds its operations and arms procurement through several sources. Here are the primary income streams and arms sources for the group:
1. Taxation and Extortion:
Al-Shabaab controls certain areas in Somalia, where they impose taxes on businesses, agricultural produce, and transportation. They also extort money from companies and individuals in exchange for protection.
They tax goods at checkpoints, including imports and exports at seaports like the port of Kismayo.
2. Illicit Trade:
Charcoal trade: Al-Shabaab has historically profited from the illegal export of charcoal, particularly to countries in the Middle East. Despite international bans, this trade continues to be a significant revenue source.
Sugar smuggling: The group smuggles sugar into Kenya and other neighboring countries, where it can be sold at a premium.
3. Donations and External Support:
Al-Shabaab has received financial support from sympathetic donors abroad, including within Somali diaspora communities. Some funds come from charities and private donations funneled through seemingly legitimate channels.
The group has also benefited from relationships with other jihadist groups, such as Al-Qaeda, which may have provided financial and logistical support.
4. Agricultural Exploitation:
In rural areas under their control, Al-Shabaab seizes agricultural produce and livestock. They demand a portion of crops and animals, which they can sell or use to sustain their fighters.
5. Ransom from Kidnappings:
Al-Shabaab engages in kidnapping for ransom, often targeting foreigners, aid workers, or wealthy Somalis. These kidnappings generate substantial revenue when ransoms are paid.
6. Arms and Ammunition:
Black Market: Al-Shabaab acquires arms through illegal arms markets in Somalia, where weapons are abundant due to years of conflict.
Captured arms: They have captured weapons and ammunition from Somali government forces and African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) troops during raids and ambushes.
Foreign arms smuggling: The group also sources arms through smuggling networks from nearby regions, including Yemen, where arms can easily be trafficked into Somalia. Houthis, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates are confirmed by independent sources to be supplying weapons to al-shabab through puntland region of Somalia, where quasi-mafia politicians are running the region. The main objective of arming al-shabab is to undermine Somalia´s state building efforts and prevent Egyptian peacekeepers to reach Somalia, as Ethiopia is working around the clock in arming different clans and al-shabab to destabilize Somalia.
Donations from allies: As a branch of Al-Qaeda, Al-Shabaab has reportedly received arms and training from affiliated terrorist groups across the region.
7. Drugs and Human Trafficking (Speculated):
Though less substantiated, there are allegations that Al-Shabaab has been involved in the drug trade and human trafficking, using the proceeds to fund their operations.
These diverse revenue streams have allowed Al-Shabaab to remain financially resilient, despite international efforts to disrupt their funding networks.
Communities Under the Brutality of Al-Shabab
Communities under Al-Shabaab’s control or influence, particularly in southern and central Somalia, face severe hardships due to the group’s oppressive tactics and restrictions. Here’s an overview of the situation and the challenges to humanitarian aid access:
1. Brutality and Oppression
Strict Sharia Law: Al-Shabaab enforces a harsh interpretation of Sharia law in areas under its control. This includes public executions, amputations for theft, and floggings for “immoral” behavior. Women face extreme restrictions, including dress codes and limited public presence.
Forced Recruitment: The group forcibly recruits young men and children (including child soldiers) to fight in their ranks. They also compel communities to provide food and other resources to sustain their fighters. Intimidation and Violence: Communities are subjected to constant threats, abductions, assassinations, and violent retaliation against anyone perceived as opposing or defying the group. This creates a climate of fear and compliance. Control of Information: Al-Shabaab limits external communications, controlling what information can leave or enter the area. This isolates communities from the rest of the country and the international community.
2. Humanitarian Challenges
Access Restrictions: Al-Shabaab severely restricts humanitarian aid from reaching areas under its control. They view international aid organizations as foreign agents, often denying them entry or imposing strict conditions on their operations. This results in the following: Food Insecurity: Many communities experience severe food shortages due to droughts, conflicts, and restrictions on agricultural activity. Humanitarian organizations struggle to deliver food aid, leading to widespread malnutrition, particularly among children.
Health Crises: Health services are limited or nonexistent in areas controlled by Al-Shabaab. The group bans certain vaccinations (e.g., polio and measles campaigns) and healthcare interventions, contributing to the spread of preventable diseases. Many people are denied access to life-saving treatments. Famine: During periods of drought or famine, Al-Shabaab’s presence exacerbates the crisis by blocking aid from reaching vulnerable populations. For example, in the 2011 famine, tens of thousands of people died, many of them in areas under Al-Shabaab’s control, where the group banned international relief efforts.
Targeting Aid Workers: Aid workers are often targeted by Al-Shabaab for kidnapping or assassination. This further complicates the ability of NGOs and international organizations to provide assistance, as they are forced to limit their presence in unsafe areas. Use of Aid as Leverage: In some cases, Al-Shabaab allows aid but taxes it heavily, confiscating food, medicine, or supplies to feed and equip their fighters. This creates a moral dilemma for aid organizations trying to reach those in need.
3. Impacted Communities
Southern and Central Somalia: Regions like Lower Shabelle, Middle Juba, Bay, and Bakool are some of the areas most affected by Al-Shabaab’s control. These rural areas are particularly vulnerable to the group’s brutality and isolation from humanitarian aid. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Many communities have fled Al-Shabaab-controlled regions, leading to a growing number of internally displaced persons living in overcrowded camps with limited access to resources. These IDP camps, often on the outskirts of cities like Mogadishu or Baidoa, are overwhelmed by the demand for aid. Women and Children: Women and children suffer disproportionately under Al-Shabaab. In addition to facing gender-based violence, women have limited access to maternal healthcare and education for their children, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and disempowerment.
4. Efforts to Provide Aid
Negotiated Access: Some humanitarian organizations have attempted to negotiate with Al-Shabaab to allow aid deliveries. While this has had limited success, it is fraught with challenges, as the group imposes heavy conditions and restrictions. Cross-border Assistance: Aid agencies have tried to deliver assistance from neighboring countries like Kenya. However, border security, logistical challenges, and the group’s cross-border operations complicate this.
Alternative Routes: Humanitarian groups have also used local partners or intermediaries to provide assistance in more remote areas, often under great risk. Emergency Interventions: During acute crises, such as droughts, international efforts like those by the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have pushed for more aggressive measures to reach affected populations, sometimes using aerial drops or other unconventional methods to bypass Al-Shabaab’s blockades.
Civilians under Attack
Attacks on civilians in Somalia have become tragically frequent, involving various actors, including militant groups like Al-Shabaab, government forces, and international military interventions, including drone strikes. Below is an overview of the key types of attacks on civilians in Somalia:
1. Al-Shabaab Attacks
Terrorist Bombings: Al-Shabaab routinely carries out bombings targeting civilians in major cities such as Mogadishu, Baidoa, and Kismayo. These attacks often focus on crowded areas like markets, hotels, checkpoints, and government buildings. Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs): One of the deadliest tactics, VBIEDs are used to target civilians, security forces, and government officials. The October 2017 Mogadishu truck bombing, one of the deadliest, killed over 500 civilians. Suicide Bombings: Al-Shabaab employs suicide bombers to hit both military targets and civilian locations. These attacks have resulted in mass casualties, especially in places like restaurants, government offices, and schools. Assassinations: The group frequently assassinates journalists, civil society leaders, and government officials, which contributes to a climate of fear. Ambushes and Massacres: In rural areas, Al-Shabaab ambushes vehicles and convoys, often killing civilians indiscriminately. In some cases, they target specific communities that are perceived to be collaborating with the government or foreign forces.
2. Government and Security Forces
Indiscriminate Shelling and Clashes: In the course of military operations against Al-Shabaab, Somali government forces and allied militias have sometimes been involved in indiscriminate shelling of populated areas, leading to civilian casualties. Human Rights Violations by Security Forces: There have been documented cases of abuse by Somali security forces, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and harassment of civilians, especially in areas under government control.
3. African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM)
Collateral Damage from Military Operations: AMISOM forces, which are made up of troops from African countries (such as Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia), have been involved in military campaigns against Al-Shabaab. Civilians have been caught in crossfire during these operations, resulting in deaths and injuries. Accidental Attacks: On occasion, AMISOM troops have accidentally targeted civilian areas or vehicles, mistaking them for Al-Shabaab fighters. These incidents have drawn criticism from local communities.
4. U.S. and International Drone Strikes
Targeted Killings: The U.S. has conducted drone strikes in Somalia for years, primarily targeting Al-Shabaab leaders and militants. However, these strikes have sometimes resulted in civilian casualties. While drone strikes are often portrayed as precise, errors in intelligence, misidentification of targets, or the presence of civilians near intended targets have led to unintended deaths. January 2020 Drone Strike Incident: One such strike in southern Somalia was reported to have killed civilians, including women and children, sparking outcry and concerns about accountability.
Escalation of Drone Warfare: The frequency of U.S. drone strikes increased in recent years under counterterrorism operations. Though strikes often successfully eliminate key Al-Shabaab operatives, the collateral damage has caused anger among local populations. Compounding Humanitarian Crises: These strikes contribute to the displacement of civilians, as people flee from areas where drone activity is high, adding to the already significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Somalia.
5. Clan-based Violence
Clan Militias: Clan rivalries and competition over resources, such as water and land, often escalate into armed clashes, leading to civilian casualties. Clan-based militias have attacked rival groups, sometimes in retaliation for previous conflicts, resulting in the deaths of non-combatants, including women and children. Displacement: Clashes between rival clans, especially in central Somalia, frequently result in mass displacement of civilians, who are forced to flee their homes and seek shelter in overcrowded IDP camps.
6. External Actors and Proxies
Kenyan Airstrikes and Cross-border Attacks: Kenya has conducted airstrikes in southern Somalia as part of its campaign against Al-Shabaab, particularly in the Gedo and Lower Juba regions. Some of these airstrikes have led to civilian casualties. Ethiopian Forces: Ethiopian troops, both within AMISOM and operating independently, have been accused of human rights violations, including civilian killings, during their military campaigns in Somalia.
Impact on Civilians
Displacement: Civilians often bear the brunt of violence, with many fleeing their homes to escape bombings, drone strikes, and militant attacks. Somalia has one of the highest numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the world, with more than 2.9 million displaced by conflict and insecurity. Psychological Trauma: Constant exposure to violence has had a profound psychological impact on civilians, especially children. Communities live in fear of sudden attacks, whether from militants, drone strikes, or government forces.
Lack of Accountability: In many instances, there is little to no accountability for attacks on civilians, whether perpetrated by Al-Shabaab, Somali government forces, AMISOM, or foreign actors like the U.S. This lack of justice contributes to a sense of impunity and deepens the grievances of affected communities.
Displacements & Humanitarian Assistance
From April to June 2024, displacement in Somalia significantly increased due to various crises, particularly during the Gu rainy season. Conflict, insecurity, and climate events like flooding in riverine areas caused widespread displacement. People fled from conflict zones to urban centers like Baidoa, Kismaayo, and Mogadishu in search of humanitarian services. Humanitarian partners provided emergency assistance in displacement sites, but access to affected areas remained challenging due to security concerns and poor infrastructure. Humanitarian agencies are prioritizing these areas for urgent intervention.
Sexual & Gender Based Violence GBV
Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Somalia, particularly involving Al-Shabaab, is a severe issue. Girls and women are often forced into marriage with Al-Shabaab militants, a tactic the group uses to maintain control and terrorize communities. These forced marriages are a form of sexual slavery, where girls, some as young as 12, are subjected to rape and abuse. Families living in areas under Al-Shabaab control face immense pressure to hand over daughters to fighters. Survivors often face stigma and lack adequate protection or justice mechanisms.
Humanitarian organizations and local advocates are working to address this crisis, providing support to survivors, raising awareness, and advocating for stronger protection and legal frameworks. However, insecurity in Al-Shabaab-controlled regions makes it challenging to provide consistent aid
Violation against Children
Children in Somalia face widespread violations of their rights due to ongoing conflict and insecurity, particularly in areas controlled by Al-Shabaab and during military operations. Key violations include:
Forced Recruitment: Al-Shabaab forcibly recruits children, some as young as 10, to serve as fighters, spies, or suicide bombers.Sexual Violence: Girls are subjected to rape, sexual slavery, and forced marriages to militants. Killing and Maiming: Children are often victims of attacks, including bombings and drone strikes. Denial of Humanitarian Access: Conflict and displacement hinder children’s access to essential services like education and healthcare.
International and local organizations are working to monitor and address these violations, though insecurity complicates efforts.
Somaliland
From April to June 2024, Somaliland faced continued tensions exacerbated by both internal disputes and regional dynamics. Armed clashes between Somaliland forces and local militias in areas like Las Anod persisted, displacing thousands of civilians. Efforts to resolve territorial disputes remained at a standstill, fueling instability in the region. The illegal MOU is another factor for possible regional war, where Ethiopia’s PM open expresses to invade Somalia and showcased a book by the Ethiopian government which anticipates a Russia style invasion on Somalia could possibly be successful in annex a part of Somalia and believes that he could escape with that easily in the manner he did escape with the Renaissance Dam GERD, but understates the risk of a wider regional war which involves Egypt that is already furious about the GERD and could not accept any new Ethiopian challenge to Egypt that can impose existential threat to Egyptians by the Sues channel under the control of Ethiopia and pose a blatant violation to the international law and to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and the potential
Humanitarian conditions worsened as displaced populations struggled to access basic necessities. Despite some efforts to deliver aid, insecurity and political challenges limited humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Key International Actors
Key international actors in Somalia include:
1. United Nations (UN): The UN provides humanitarian aid, political support, and peacekeeping efforts, including the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).
2. African Union (AU): The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and its successor, ATMIS, have been critical in stabilizing the country and combating Al-Shabaab.
3. United States: The U.S. supports counterterrorism operations and provides humanitarian and development aid.
4. European Union (EU): The EU backs peacekeeping, governance, and development programs.
5. Turkey and Qatar: Both countries invest in infrastructure, humanitarian aid, and political engagement.
Recommendations
The Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders (CSHRD) provides several key recommendations, focusing on:
1. Strengthening Protection Mechanisms: Improve legal frameworks and protective measures for human rights defenders (HRDs), especially women and marginalized groups.
2. Advocacy for Justice: Call for accountability and justice for violations committed by armed groups, including Al-Shabaab, and state actors.
3. Humanitarian Access: Ensure humanitarian assistance reaches vulnerable communities, particularly those in conflict zones.
4. International Support: Urge international actors to maintain pressure on the Somali government for human rights reforms and provide targeted funding for HRD protection programs.
5. To maintain peace and stability in Somalia and in the region, the international community should consider imposing sanctions on Peace spoilers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Somalia continues to face significant challenges due to conflict, human rights violations, and humanitarian crises. Key international actors play vital roles in providing support and advocating for human rights. The recommendations from the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders highlight the urgent need for protection mechanisms, accountability, and humanitarian access. Addressing these issues is critical for stabilizing the region and ensuring the safety and rights of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children affected by violence and displacement.