EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive dialogue on human rights in Somalia

Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

Madam Independent Expert,

The EU wishes to thank you for your report and your years of dedicated service.

We share your concern that the vast majority of the recommendations from human rights mechanisms, including your own benchmarks, remain largely unimplemented.

The resurgence of Al-Shabaab, coupled with ongoing political instability, has resulted in a rise in human rights violations and heightened humanitarian protection challenges.  

We recognize that security is intrinsically linked to political dynamics. In this context, national political reconciliation and inclusive political reforms are essential for a unified and effective response to Al-Shabaab as well as for advancing human rights protection and achieving long-term stability in Somalia.

In this regard, we reiterate your recommendation to the Government of Somalia to undertake an inclusive, transparent and participatory political dialogue and echo your call on all federal state governments and opposition figures to prioritize cooperation for the benefit of the Somali people. 

Madam Independent Expert, with your own mandate concluding and the UN Transitional Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) set to enter its final phase, what urgent steps are needed to ensure continued focus on human rights and political dialogue in Somalia?

Thank you.