HRC63 - EU Statement - Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on technical assistance to Somalia

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

63^rd session

Interactive dialogue on the OHCHR report on technical assistance to Somalia

1 October 2026

EU statement

Thank you, Mr. President.

High Commissioner, the EU thanks you for your report and welcomes the continued engagement between Somalia and OHCHR.

We welcome certain progress, including the establishment of the National Independent Human Rights Commission. As UNTMIS closes, its independence and effectiveness will be crucial to fully executing its constitutional mandate to protect, promote, and monitor human rights across Somalia.

At the same time, we remain concerned by restrictions on freedom of expression and intimidation of journalists. We are also deeply concerned by the draft Penal Code and the constitutional amendment lowering the age of maturity from 18 to 15. Together with other legislative reforms, these measures risk creating legal inconsistencies and weakening protection, particularly for women and children. 

We urge Somalia to ensure that all legislative reforms are fully aligned with its international human rights obligations. The EU remains committed to supporting Somalia with the implementation of its accepted UPR recommendations.

High Commissioner, with UNTMIS closing and resources constrained, how can the limited resources best be prioritised to ensure continued monitoring, support the National Commission, and assist Somalia in bringing legislative reforms in line with its international human rights obligations?

Thank you.