Mogadishu, Somalia — Somalia recorded at least 41 violations against media freedom between January and June 2025, according to data compiled by media rights groups and journalist unions. The violations, which include arrests, assaults, and prosecutions of journalists, were concentrated in Mogadishu and parts of Somaliland, reflecting growing concerns over the erosion of press freedom in the country.
The incidents include the arbitrary detention of reporters, physical violence during news coverage, harassment by security forces, and the filing of criminal charges against journalists for publishing stories critical of authorities. In some cases, entire media outlets were temporarily shut down or threatened with closure.
“These acts are not isolated but form part of a troubling pattern of repression. Journalists in Somalia are under constant threat simply for doing their job—informing the public,” read a statement from the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS).
Mogadishu remained the most dangerous city for journalists during this period, followed by Hargeisa, where local authorities reportedly prosecuted multiple journalists under criminal defamation laws. Some cases involved reporters covering corruption, human rights abuses, or political disputes.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders (RSF), condemned the attacks, calling them a direct assault on freedom of expression and democratic principles. They urged both the Federal Government of Somalia and the Somaliland administration to uphold their constitutional obligations to protect the media.
“The government must ensure a safe environment where the press can operate freely, without fear of intimidation or violence,” said an RSF representative.
Somalia has long been one of the most challenging countries in the world for journalists, with ongoing threats from both state and non-state actors. Despite international advocacy and local reforms, media workers remain vulnerable, especially in conflict-prone areas.
The Somali Federal Government has yet to comment formally on the latest figures, though some officials have previously stated that they are committed to improving the legal and security environment for journalists.
Media advocacy groups are calling for an independent investigation into these incidents and for legal reforms that decriminalize journalism and ensure accountability for those who violate media rights.