The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) welcomed the adoption of the African Union (AU) Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
Adopted by the 38th AU Assembly, the Convention marks a major step toward gender equality, human rights, and accountability across Africa, including Somalia.
The convention provides a comprehensive legal framework to combat gender-based violence, ensuring stronger protections and justice for survivors while holding perpetrators accountable.
This commitment strengthens national and regional efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls, setting legal and policy benchmarks for governments.
“For women journalists in Somalia, this convention is particularly significant,” said Nima Hassan Abdi, Organising Secretary of NUSOJ.
“Women working in the media face persistent threats, harassment, and violence simply for doing their jobs,” she added.
“This new legal tool strengthens our ability to demand real protections, justice, and accountability for women journalists, ensuring they can work without fear.”
In addition to tackling gender-based violence in the media, this convention will bolster NUSOJ’s ongoing efforts against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Somalia.
The media plays a vital role in exposing and challenging SGBV. NUSOJ is committed to ensuring journalists can report safely and freely without facing reprisals.
This AU Convention will support the implementation of ILO Convention 190 (C190) on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work.
By aligning with international standards, Somalia has a critical opportunity to enact stronger legal protections and promote workplace safety, eradicating violence and harassment.
“As a union, we have actively campaigned for this convention at both the continental level and within Somalia,” Nima added.
“Our next priority is ensuring full domestication and enforcement so that this milestone brings real and lasting change for women and girls in Somalia.”
NUSOJ remains committed to working with national and international partners to translate this convention into legal protections, policy reforms, and a safer environment.
