Mogadishu, Somalia – On Sunday, Somalia joined the global community in marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, a solemn reminder of the risks faced by media professionals in the country.
The national commemoration, organized by the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) with support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives through the Canadian High Commission in Kenya, brought together government officials, journalists, and civil society representatives in Mogadishu.
Presiding over the ceremony, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hassan Moallin, reaffirmed the government’s determination to end impunity for crimes targeting journalists.
He emphasized that freedom of the press is not just a right but a cornerstone of Somalia’s democratic transformation. His remarks reflected a broader shift in the government’s tone—one that recognizes journalists not as adversaries but as vital partners in accountability and nation-building.
The event also shone a light on the specific challenges faced by women journalists, who continue to navigate threats, harassment, and systemic barriers in their professional work. Participants called for stronger legal protection and a safer environment where women in the media can pursue their careers without fear or intimidation.
Somalia remains one of the world’s most dangerous places for journalists, with dozens having lost their lives in the past decade. Yet, the commemoration served as both a tribute and a call to action—reminding all that justice for fallen journalists is essential for truth, transparency, and national healing.
The government’s renewed pledge to strengthen judicial processes and protect media workers was met with cautious optimism. For many in attendance, the day was less about speeches and more about the shared hope that future commemorations will celebrate progress, not just perseverance.