YOUR RIGHTS, YOUR DIGNITY, YOUR PROTECTION
The National Independent Human Rights Commission of Somalia exists to help every person understand, enjoy, and protect their human rights.
Human rights are not a privilege. They are your right by birth, protected by Islam, the Constitution of Somalia, and the law.
This section explains your rights in simple, practical language, and tells you what to do when your rights are violated.
WHY “KNOW YOUR RIGHTS” MATTERS
Many human rights violations happen because people:
- Do not know their rights
- Fear authorities
- Do not know where to complain
- Believe violations are “normal”
Knowing your rights empowers you to:
- Protect yourself and your family
- Seek help without fear
- Hold institutions accountable
- Live with dignity and justice
The Commission is here to support you, not to judge you.
WHERE DO YOUR RIGHTS COME FROM?
Your rights are protected by:
1. Islamic Principles
Islam upholds:
- Human dignity (Karaamada Aadanaha)
- Justice (‘Adaalad)
- Equality
- Protection from oppression (Dulmiga)
2. The Provisional Constitution of Somalia
The Constitution guarantees:
- Fundamental rights and freedoms
- Equality before the law
- Protection from abuse and discrimination
3. Somali Laws
Including the law establishing the Human Rights Commission.
4. International Human Rights Treaties
Somalia is part of regional and international human rights systems that protect:
- Women
- Children
- Persons with disabilities
- All human beings
YOUR BASIC RIGHTS (FOR EVERYONE)
Every person in Somalia has the right to:
- Life and personal security
- Human dignity and respect
- Equality before the law
- Freedom from torture and abuse
- Fair treatment by authorities
- Access to justice
- Freedom from discrimination
These rights apply regardless of:
- Clan
- Gender
- Age
- Disability
- Displacement status
- Political opinion
- Social status
YOUR RIGHTS IF YOU ARE ARRESTED OR DETAINED
If you are arrested or detained, you still have rights.
You Have the Right To:
- Be informed why you are being arrested
- Be treated humanely and with dignity
- Not be tortured or mistreated
- Be brought before a court within the time allowed by law
- Have access to a lawyer or legal assistance
- Contact your family
What Is Not Allowed:
- Beating or physical abuse
- Torture or humiliation
- Detention without legal reason
- Being held in secret locations
How the Commission Helps:
- Visits detention facilities
- Investigates allegations of abuse
- Makes recommendations to authorities
- Follows up until corrective action is taken
WOMEN’S RIGHTS
Xuquuqda Haweenka
Women have equal rights and dignity under Islam, the Constitution, and the law.
Women Have the Right To:
- Protection from violence and abuse
- Equal treatment before the law
- Access to justice and services
- Participation in public life
- Dignity within the family and society
Violence Against Women Is Not Acceptable
This includes:
- Domestic violence
- Sexual violence
- Forced marriage
- Harmful traditional practices
How the Commission Helps:
- Receives confidential complaints
- Prioritises cases involving women
- Engages police, prosecutors, and institutions
- Advocates for protection and accountability
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
Xuquuqda Carruurta
Every child has the right to grow up in safety, care, and dignity.
Children Have the Right To:
- Protection from violence, abuse, and exploitation
- Education
- Health care
- Special protection in the justice system
- Not be recruited into armed groups
What Is Not Allowed:
- Child abuse or neglect
- Child labour that harms the child
- Recruitment or use of children in conflict
How the Commission Helps:
- Investigates violations involving children
- Works with child protection institutions
- Promotes child-friendly justice
- Advocates for stronger child protection systems
RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Xuquuqda Dadka Naafada ah
Persons with disabilities have equal rights and must not be excluded or discriminated against.
You Have the Right To:
- Equality and non-discrimination
- Access to public services and spaces
- Participation in education and employment
- Respect and dignity
What Is Not Allowed:
- Discrimination because of disability
- Exclusion from services
- Abuse or neglect
How the Commission Helps:
- Ensures disability inclusion in policies
- Investigates discrimination complaints
- Promotes accessibility and equality
RIGHTS OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPs)
Xuquuqda Barakacayaasha Gudaha
Displacement does not remove your rights.
IDPs Have the Right To:
- Protection and safety
- Humanitarian assistance
- Access to basic services
- Protection from forced eviction
- Dignity and non-discrimination
Forced Evictions Are Not Allowed Without Lawful Process
How the Commission Helps:
- Investigates forced eviction cases
- Engages authorities and landowners
- Recommends remedies and protections
- Monitors IDP conditions
RIGHTS OF MINORITIES AND MARGINALISED GROUPS
All communities have equal rights.
You Have the Right To:
- Equal protection under the law
- Freedom from discrimination
- Participation in social and economic life
How the Commission Helps:
- Investigates discrimination cases
- Promotes inclusive policies
- Engages institutions on equality
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL & CULTURAL RIGHTS
Your Right to Live with Dignity
These rights include:
- Right to education
- Right to health
- Right to water and housing
- Right to work and fair conditions
The State has a duty to progressively realise these rights.
How the Commission Helps:
- Monitors service delivery
- Investigates systemic failures
- Advises Government and Parliament
- Advocates for equitable access
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR RIGHTS ARE VIOLATED
Step 1: Do Not Stay Silent
Violations are not “normal”. You have the right to speak.
Step 2: Gather Information (If Possible)
- What happened?
- When and where?
- Who was involved?
Step 3: Contact the Commission
You can:
- Submit a complaint online
- Visit the Commission office
- Send a letter or email
Step 4: Confidentiality Is Guaranteed
Your safety and privacy are important.
HOW THE COMMISSION CAN HELP YOU
The Commission can:
- Receive and investigate complaints
- Visit places of detention
- Make recommendations to authorities
- Follow up until action is taken
- Refer cases where necessary
The Commission does not charge any fees.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Do I need a lawyer to complain?
No.
Can I complain anonymously?
Yes, in certain cases.
Will complaining put me in danger?
The Commission takes measures to protect complainants.
Can the Commission arrest people?
No. The Commission investigates and recommends action.
ACCESSIBILITY & LANGUAGE
This section is available in:
- Somali (default)
- Arabic
- English
Accessibility features include:
- Simple language
- Mobile-friendly design
- Audio summaries
- Disability-friendly layout