2019–20 Somalia highlights

Almost 30 years of conflict in Somalia have led to unstable formal security structures that gain little trust from communities; this situation is made worse by the shifting of resources towards dealing with insurgency in the country. As a result, the everyday needs of Somali people are often not met.

Working with our partners – the Somali Women Development Centre, the Somali Women Solidarity Organization and Isha Human Rights Organization – we entered the fourth year of our project to re-establish community structures that help improve people’s day-to-day security and safety, and strengthen links with authorities and other formal bodies. We have seen significant strides in the work of the project’s 13 volunteer action groups. They have established long-lasting and trusting relationships with their communities in Mogadishu, Kismayo and Baidoa, and have continued to harness advocacy efforts with local governments for greater stability and peace.

This year, to explore alternative pathways towards achieving a peaceful resolution to the Somali conflict, we conducted research on the impact of international intervention in Somalia. We also published research on how the new federal system has affected communities in Gulmudug state, looking at people’s perception of the federalism process and the effects it has had on their security and access to services.

Looking ahead, we hope to further build synergies with the Somali police force and to elevate advocacy efforts to a national level.