MOGADISHU — The Minister of Defense for the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, held a crucial strategic meeting today with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, H.E. James Swan.
Taking place in the capital, the high-level bilateral discussion focused heavily on the critical relationship between national security operations and strict international human rights standards, aiming to ensure continued, robust support from the international community.
Protecting Children in Conflict Zones
According to officials, the meeting emphasized the Federal Government’s strong commitments to protecting children in conflict areas. Minister Fiqi and Special Envoy Swan assessed current state efforts systematically aimed at preventing the recruitment and use of children in combat.
By implementing these vital safeguards throughout the security forces, the Ministry of Defense is actively countering extremist recruitment methods. These efforts also complement recent national initiatives to launch a Child Rights Coalition, simultaneously raising the operational ethics of the Somali National Army to meet rigorous international standards.
Upholding the Due Diligence Policy
Additionally, the diplomatic exchange included a thorough review of the United Nations Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP). Both officials examined the absolute importance of continuous, transparent collaboration to ensure all Somali security organizations strictly adhere to these international norms, particularly as Somalia continues to regain full sovereignty over its human rights oversight.
Full compliance with the HRDDP is deemed vital for the Federal Government. Officials noted that adherence to these standards guarantees the steady and unimpeded flow of crucial international military aid, logistical resources, and strategic funding necessary to build and sustain Somalia’s long-term defense capabilities.
