The Federal Government of Somalia has achieved a historic milestone by formally opening the country to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for the first time.
On Wednesday in Geneva, the Minister of Family and Human Rights Development, H.E. Amb. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, signed an agreement with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk. The agreement supports the implementation of UN Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/60/28, which established the Independent National Human Rights Commission and outlines the framework for technical cooperation and support to strengthen Somalia’s human rights system.
This agreement marks a significant advancement in Somalia’s international engagement and commitment to fulfilling its national and international human rights obligations. It will facilitate the establishment of an OHCHR presence in Mogadishu, enhancing institutional capacity, accountability, and protection mechanisms across the country.
The signing reflects sustained efforts by the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development over the past 18 months to strengthen governance in the human rights sector. It builds on Somalia’s recent progress at the UN Human Rights Council and the establishment of key national institutions.
A high-level Somali delegation, led by Minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, participated in the signing ceremony. The delegation included Director General Mohamed Bashir Omar, alongside senior advisors and ministry officials.
This milestone underscores Somalia’s ongoing recovery and its commitment to advancing human rights, justice, and institutional development.