Save the Children has welcomed the approval of Somalia’s National Independent Human Rights Commission by the Federal Parliament, also known as the House of the People.
The agency described it as a major milestone in strengthening human rights protection across the country.
In a statement, the international child rights organization said the move marks an important step toward greater accountability and the establishment of stronger legal and policy frameworks that safeguard the rights of all Somalis — especially children.
Save the Children said it remains committed to working with national institutions to ensure every child in Somalia is protected, educated, and empowered.
The humanitarian organization reiterated that it will seek opportunities to partner with the newly approved Commission to advance systemic change for children’s rights.
“This is a historic moment for Somalia,” said Mohamed Mohamud Hassan, Save the Children’s Country Director in Somalia.
“A strong and independent Human Rights Commission will help ensure that children’s rights are not only recognized but actively monitored and protected. We are committed to working closely with the Commission to strengthen monitoring of child rights frameworks, strategies, and policies for children in Somalia,” he noted.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi said the undertaking restores Somalia’s full ownership and independence in managing its national and international human rights obligations — a responsibility our nation has aspired to reclaim since March 1993.
“This moment marks a profound milestone in Somalia’s state-building journey and reflects the renewed confidence of the international community in our institutions, our governance, and our collective commitment to uphold and advance human rights for all Somali citizens,” said the premier.
“By reclaiming this sovereign mandate, Somalia demonstrates its growing institutional maturity and readiness to assume full national ownership of the human rights agenda — guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Paris Principles, and the founding values of the United Nations,” he added.
Members of the Federal Parliament of Somalia on Saturday approved the Independent National Human Rights Commission during their session.
Somalia’s Minister of Family Affairs and Human Rights, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, has praised the Federal Parliament for approving the establishment of the Independent National Human Rights Commission, describing the move as a major stride toward justice and accountability in the country.
Speaking after the parliamentary vote, Minister Al-Makhzoumi said the decision represents Somalia’s growing commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of its citizens.
“This is a proud and defining moment for our nation,” she said. “The creation of this Commission reflects Somalia’s determination to strengthen human rights institutions and uphold the principles of justice and equality for all.”
She added that the Commission’s approval was the product of sustained collaboration and careful planning by government institutions and partners.
“The establishment of this Commission sends a powerful message — that Somalia is moving forward with resolve, building systems that protect every citizen and ensure accountability,” Al-Makhzoumi said.
The approval of the Human Rights Commission is aimed at boosting national efforts to promote justice, equality, and the protection of vulnerable groups, including women and children, across the country.