Mogadishu, Somalia – The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs of Somalia has firmly denied reports alleging that members of the Somali delegation attending the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva have escaped and are currently seeking asylum in Europe.
In a statement released Wednesday, the ministry labeled the claims as “false and misleading,” emphasizing that all delegates returned to their posts as scheduled following the conclusion of the conference.
“The reports circulating on social media regarding alleged asylum-seeking by members of our delegation are baseless. Such narratives aim to tarnish the image of the country and the integrity of its institutions,” read part of the ministry’s statement on this matter.
The ministry reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to international engagement and said it would continue to collaborate with global labor bodies to promote fair labor standards and rights for Somali workers.
The International Labour Conference, hosted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), brings together governments, workers, and employers from around the world to discuss pressing labor issues. Somalia was represented by officials from the Ministry, labor unions, and employer associations.
Officials did not comment on whether any investigation would be launched into the origin of the claims.