On Saturday, 5 September 2026, the Chairperson of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), Dr. Maryan Qasim, said that the launch of the National Policy for the Protection of Civilians during Military Operations and Armed Conflict marks an important step toward ensuring civilian safety, accountability and independent oversight.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, was attended by several members of the Council of Ministers, including the Minister of Defence, government officials, senior security and military officers, and other partners.
The Chairperson noted that the policy clearly defines the responsibilities of the institutions involved in military and security operations, while granting the Commission an independent role in oversight, verification of information, investigation of complaints, reporting, and making recommendations.
She added that NIHRC will closely follow the implementation of the policy, investigate complaints and incidents reported to it, monitor recurring issues, and propose corrective and preventive measures, while tracking the follow-up of its own recommendations.
Dr. Maryan affirmed that the Commission will work with all government institutions, security and military forces, Federal Member States, civil society and other partners, while preserving the Commission’s independence, judgment and decisions.
She concluded by stressing that the protection of civilians must be grounded in the Constitution of Somalia, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law.