Human rights in Somalia

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Somalia

This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Somalia

President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed Prime Minister of Somalia Ali Mohammed Ghedi Parliament Armed forces of government Political parties Islamic Courts Union Elections Regions Districts Foreign relations Human Rights See also: Politics of Somaliland

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Although a transitional government was established in 2000 at the Djibouti Conference, Somalia has not had a central government since President Mohamed Siad Barre fled the country in 1991. De Facto power is held by the unrecognized entities of Somaliland and Puntland and various warlords. Due to the unstable political situation in the country, Human rights in Somalia are extremely poor and serious human rights violations are a problem.

Contents 1 Police Brutality 2 Restriction of Freedoms 3 Violence against Women 4 Child Abuse 5 Persecution of Minorities 6 References 7 External links

[edit] Police Brutality

Justice is enforced by both police forces and factional militia, both of which have committed many human rights abuses in the past. Kidnappings by militia groups to obtain ransom money are common. Arbitrary arrests are a problem. Prison conditions are extremely poor and dangerous. Overcrowding, dangerous health conditions, and abuse by guards exist in Somali prisons. Reports exist of Puntland, Somaliland, and militia groups using torture against each other and civilians^[1].

[edit] Restriction of Freedoms

Freedom of speech, press, assembly, association, religion, and movement are all restricted. Harassment and detention of journalists have occurred across the country. Somaliland has banned political demonstrations, and Puntland has outlawed opposition parties. Checkpoints around Somalia are manned by militia, who have at times extorted or killed civilians attempting to travel through the country. The right to privacy is also restricted.

[edit] Violence against Women

Violence and discrimination against women, including genital mutilation, is common. The rape of women by militia and bandits is a problem, and there are no laws against spousal rape.

[edit] Child Abuse

Child abuse, including child labor and human trafficking, is a problem. The United Nations has listed Somalia as a country in which the use of child soldiers exists^[2]. Many youths join armed gangs and militia groups.

[edit] Persecution of Minorities

Discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities is a problem. In some areas gunmen have coerced minorities into forced labor. Intermarriage between minority groups and the ethnic Somali majority are outlawed, and they generally have restricted access to health care and education.

[edit] References

[edit] External links

• Human Rights Watch: Somalia
• Censorship in Somalia - IFEX