“I recognise the extensive efforts by the Somali authorities to prevent terrorism, through a comprehensive strategy combining law enforcement, military operations, combating violent extremism and addressing the root causes of terrorist recruitment,” the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, Ben Saul said in a statement at the end of an official visit to the country.

“I also acknowledge Somalia’s severe security and resource constraints.”

Saul noted with concern that Somalia has adopted excessive and overbroad terrorist definitions and offences, as well as expansive intelligence and security powers that could compromise fundamental human rights.

He warned that some terrorism offences attract the death penalty even when they do not involve intentional killing, as required under international law.

During his visit, the expert received reports of arbitrary arrests, protracted pre-trial detention, lack of legal representation, possible enforced disappearance, excessive use of force, and ill-treatment in detention.

“I am deeply concerned about widespread violations against children in armed conflict, including killings, maiming, forced recruitment, sexual and gender-based violence, and trafficking,” the Special Rapporteur said.

Saul said he was particularly concerned about the use of military courts to try terrorist suspects, which lack sufficient independence and fair trial safeguards.

“Prison conditions also do not meet international standards,” he said.

The Special Rapporteur acknowledged achievements of military operations against terrorist groups, but said he was concerned that military forces lacked the necessary rules, procedures and accountability mechanisms to prevent, prosecute and remedy violations. He also expressed deep concern over the use of clan militias alongside the military, in the absence of a legal framework to safeguard human rights.

The Special Rapporteur urged Somalia, with international support, to establish and adequately resource rehabilitation and reintegration centres and programmes for individuals who disengage from Al-Shabab, including women survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.

He warned that countering terrorism financing laws risked impeding the delivery of independent and impartial humanitarian relief to vulnerable civilian populations in acute need.

“Counter-terrorism laws are also adversely affecting the freedom of the media to report on security matters and restricting and chilling the human rights work of civil society organisations,” Saul said.

“I encourage Somalia to establish independent and effective oversight and accountability mechanisms for all counter-terrorism actors, redouble efforts to address root causes, pursue conflict resolution and peace-making, strive for inclusive and participatory governance, and combat corruption, poverty and discrimination against minorities.”

He encouraged international partners to maintain political and financial support for Somalia, in the face of devastating recent funding cuts by some donors.

“This is a critical moment for Somalia,” he said. “Sustained international engagement is essential to support national efforts to build lasting peace, strengthen rule of law, and protect human rights while countering terrorism.”

The Special Rapporteur will present a detailed report on his findings to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2026.

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“During the meeting, Minister Juxa and the UN envoy discussed the importance of safeguarding human rights during counter-terrorism operations,” said a statement from the Ministry of Interior of Puntland.

The two officials also addressed the broader implications of political instability on human rights, particularly in light of Somalia’s ongoing political challenges, according to Puntland authorities.

Minister Said briefed Mr. Saul on Puntland’s approach to protecting the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, outlining the regional administration’s policy framework and ongoing support for vulnerable communities.

Mr. Saul is currently visiting Somalia as part of his official mandate.

Last week, he held meetings with civil society groups in Mogadishu to assess the human rights situation across the country.

The Minister of Interior of Puntland, Abdi Farah @FarahJuxa , on Sunday welcomed the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism, Mr. Ben Saul, at his office in #Garowe.

Mr. Saul is currently visiting Somalia as… pic.twitter.com/uUXK1WJ7sY

— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) May 19, 2025

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