Mogadishu, Somalia — H. E. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, the Minister of Family and Human Rights Development in Somalia, engaged in talks with Maymuchka Lauriston, the Deputy Regional Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and Head of its East Africa office, in Mogadishu.
The meeting aimed to enhance collaboration between Somalia and OHCHR, implement the UN Human Rights Council resolution A/HRC/RES/60/28, and develop a two-year action plan for 2026–2027. The discussions also emphasized the urgency of establishing an official OHCHR office in Somalia. This meeting is part of the Somali ministry’s ongoing efforts to bolster human rights within the nation, following significant advancements such as the restoration of Somalia’s independent human rights framework and the creation of a national human rights commission.
The meeting between Minister Al — Makhzoumi and the OHCHR delegation comes at a time when Somalia has made strides in human rights, including the re-establishment of its human rights framework and the formation of a national commission dedicated to these issues. The two-year action plan is expected to focus on enhancing legal protections, promoting gender equality, and addressing violence against women and children.
The establishment of an OHCHR office in Somalia is seen as a critical step in ensuring the continued advancement of human rights in the country. The office would provide a permanent presence to monitor and report on human rights conditions, offering technical assistance and support to Somali authorities.
Minister Al — Makhzoumi expressed optimism about the partnership with OHCHR, stating, “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring that every Somali citizen can live in dignity and security.”.
Source: SONNA
