The Chairperson of the Independent Human Rights Commission of Somalia, Dr. Maryan Qasim, met in Mogadishu with the Head of the United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), Raisedon Zenenga. The two sides discussed the transfer of human rights functions currently managed by the United Nations to the Somali commission.
The meeting, held at the commission’s headquarters, focused on the handover of responsibilities related to monitoring, documenting, and reporting human rights violations, as UNTMIS prepares to conclude its operations in Somalia in October 2026.
Zenenga stated that the United Nations would continue to support the Somali Human Rights Commission even after the UNTMIS mission ends, particularly in areas such as institutional capacity building, enhancing monitoring and reporting capabilities, and strengthening the commission’s ability to independently fulfill its constitutional mandate.
Dr. Maryan Qasim welcomed the continued partnership, affirming the commission’s commitment to fostering national ownership and building a human rights institution that is independent, transparent, and easily accessible to the public. UNTMIS succeeded the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia on November 1, 2024, with the transition plan scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2026. Upon the mission’s completion, remaining functions will be gradually transferred to Somali government institutions, the UN Country Team, and other relevant stakeholders.
The Independent Human Rights Commission of Somalia initiated efforts this year to strengthen its operational capacity following the election of Dr. Maryan Qasim as its chairperson in February 2026. The Commission is responsible for documenting human rights violations, supporting victims, and advising the government on matters related to good governance and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The handover of UNTMIS functions will place a significant responsibility on the Commission regarding the monitoring of the human rights situation in Somalia, at a time when the country continues to face challenges concerning security, politics, and the protection of civic space. The United Nations has pledged to continue supporting the Commission following the departure of UNTMIS, though details regarding the nature and scope of this support remain to be determined. The transfer of human rights responsibilities is part of a broader plan to prepare Somalia to fully take over the functions that international organizations have been carrying out in the country for years.
