Mogadishu, Somalia – The House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia has approved the Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) Bill in a major legislative breakthrough aimed at addressing the pressing needs of displaced populations across the country.
The bill, passed during Saturday’s session, lays the foundation for a comprehensive legal framework designed to safeguard the rights of internally displaced persons.
It ensures their access to essential services such as shelter, healthcare, education, and legal protection, while also outlining mechanisms for durable solutions including resettlement, local integration, and voluntary return.
Government officials and humanitarian partners welcomed the bill’s passage, noting its alignment with both national priorities and international human rights standards.
The new legislation comes at a critical time as Somalia continues to grapple with conflict, climate shocks, and food insecurity—factors that have displaced more than 3 million people within its borders.
“This law is a historic milestone in our efforts to support and protect vulnerable communities. It sends a strong message that the Federal Government is committed to upholding the dignity and rights of all citizens, regardless of their status or location,” said a member of the parliamentary committee on humanitarian affairs.
The bill is expected to strengthen coordination between federal, state, and local authorities, and provide a legal basis for humanitarian agencies and development actors to work more effectively with displaced communities.
Implementation of the law will require the establishment of dedicated institutions and allocation of resources, and the government has pledged to work with stakeholders to operationalize the bill swiftly.
The IDP Bill’s approval marks a significant step forward in Somalia’s legislative reforms and reinforces its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable amid ongoing challenges.