UN rights expert calls for consensus on Somalia's constitutional review

The United Nations Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, Isha Dyfan, concluded a five-day visit to the country on Thursday, urging political actors to prioritize dialogue and build consensus around amendments to Somalia’s provisional constitution. Addressing reporters in Mogadishu, Dyfan commended Somalia’s bicameral federal parliament for voting on amendments to the first four chapters of the constitution. However, she expressed concerns about the lack of consensus among political parties regarding the changes. “I call on all parties to prioritize dialogue to build consensus in order to safeguard these positive developments towards enhancing the promotion of democracy, rule of law and human rights in Somalia,” Dyfan stated. The UN expert welcomed the fact that key provisions like setting the age of majority at 18 and the full prohibition of female genital mutilation were maintained in the amended constitution. She urged authorities to ensure any future amendments comply strictly with Somalia’s international human rights obligations.
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