The protection of civilians (PoC) in armed conflict has been on the
Security Council’s agenda since the adoption of resolution 1265, which
was the first thematic resolution on this issue.1 It condemned the
deliberate targeting of civilians in conflict; urged conflict parties to
respect international humanitarian law (IHL); stressed the importance of
safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid; and expressed the
Council’s willingness to take measures to ensure compliance and to
provide protection through UN peace operations.
The protection of civilians in Somalia remains a critical issue,
exacerbated by decades of conflict, political instability, and weak
governance. Despite ongoing peace building efforts, Somali civilians
face persistent threats from armed conflict, violent extremism, and
human rights abuses. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated
efforts from the Somali government, international actors, and local
communities.
Key Threats to Civilians in Somalia
1. Armed Conflict and Insecurity
• Somalia’s long-standing conflict involves the Somali government,
Al-Shabaab, clan militias, and international actors.
• Civilians often bear the brunt of violence through indiscriminate
attacks, airstrikes, and targeted killings.
• Urban areas, such as Mogadishu, are frequent targets of bombings and
suicide attacks by extremist groups.
2. Violent Extremism
• Al-Shabaab, the dominant extremist group, regularly conducts attacks
on civilians, including bombings, forced conscription, and public
executions.
• Civilians in Al-Shabaab-controlled areas face harsh governance,
including forced taxation and marriage, restricted movement, and summary
punishments.
3. Clan-Based Violence
• Clan rivalries and disputes over resources (e.g., land and water)
often escalate into violence, disproportionately impacting civilians.
• Women and children are particularly vulnerable during these clashes,
experiencing displacement, sexual violence, and exploitation.
4. Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis
• Somalia has over 3 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to
conflict, drought, and natural disasters.
• IDPs often live in overcrowded camps with limited access to food,
water, healthcare, and protection, making them vulnerable to
exploitation and violence.
5. Airstrikes and Military Operations
• Operations by the Somali National Army (SNA), African Union Transition
Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), American Drones, Kenyan and Turkish
airstrikes and international forces sometimes result in civilian
casualties.
• Lack of accountability and transparency in these operations has eroded
trust among communities.
6. Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
• Women and girls face heightened risks of sexual violence,
exploitation, and forced marriages, particularly in IDP camps and
conflict zones.
• Survivors often lack access to justice and support services,
perpetuating cycles of abuse.
Efforts to Protect Civilians
1. Government Initiatives
• The Somali government has pledged to prioritize civilian protection,
particularly in its National Development Plan and Security Sector
Reforms.
• Efforts include establishing a National Human Rights Commission to
investigate abuses and improve accountability.
2. African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)
• ATMIS, formerly AMISOM, supports the Somali government in combating
Al-Shabaab and maintaining security.
• However, reports of civilian casualties during operations highlight
the need for stronger safeguards and oversight.
3. Humanitarian Support
• International organizations such as the UNHCR, ICRC, and Save the
Children provide lifesaving assistance to displaced populations and
victims of violence.
• Programs focus on food aid, shelter, healthcare, and psychosocial
support.
4. Civil Society and Local Efforts
• Somali civil society groups play a vital role in raising awareness,
documenting abuses, and advocating for victims.
• Traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms, such as clan elders and
sharia courts, are often employed to mediate disputes and prevent
violence.
5. International Advocacy and Accountability
• UN Security Council Resolutions on Somalia emphasize the need to
protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Efforts by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other bodies to
investigate war crimes and human rights abuses are ongoing.
Challenges to Civilian Protection
1. Weak Governance
• Somalia’s fragile government struggles to enforce laws and protect
civilians in many parts of the country, particularly rural areas.
2. Impunity for Perpetrators
• Limited accountability mechanisms enable armed groups, militias, and
even security forces to commit abuses without consequences.
3. Resource Constraints
• Somalia’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, fuelled by conflict and climate
change, stretches resources thin, leaving many civilians without
adequate protection.
4. Complex Conflict Dynamics
• The interplay between clan politics, extremist violence, and
international military operations complicates efforts to ensure civilian
safety.
Recommendations for Strengthening Civilian Protection
For the Somali Government
1. Strengthen Accountability:
o Establish independent mechanisms to investigate civilian casualties
and prosecute perpetrators of abuses.
2. Improve Security Forces:
o Train security personnel on human rights and civilian protection.
o Implement stricter oversight of military operations to prevent harm to
civilians.
3. Expand Access to Justice:
o Strengthen judicial systems to provide justice for victims of violence
and exploitation.
For International Partners
1. Increase Humanitarian Assistance:
o Provide greater funding for aid programs addressing displacement, food
insecurity, and healthcare.
2. Enhance ATMIS Oversight:
o Ensure that ATMIS operations prioritize civilian safety and
investigate allegations of harm.
3. Support Community-Based Initiatives:
o Empower local peace building efforts and traditional conflict
resolution mechanisms.
For Civil Society
1. Advocate for Victims:
o Amplify the voices of survivors and marginalized groups through
documentation and advocacy.
2. Promote Awareness:
o Conduct grassroots campaigns to educate communities on their rights
and available protection mechanisms.
A Call to Action
The protection of civilians in Somalia is not just a humanitarian
obligation but a prerequisite for sustainable peace and development.
Ensuring safety and justice for Somalia’s most vulnerable requires a
concerted effort from all stakeholders—government, international
partners, and local communities. By prioritizing civilian protection,
Somalia can move closer to stability and a brighter future for its
people.
