19 February 2025
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) welcomes the adoption of the African Union (AU) Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (AUEVAWGConvention) by the 38th AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, marking a major step towards 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 historic commitment strengthens national and regional efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls, setting a clear legal and policy benchmark for governments across the continent.
“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. This new legal tool strengthens our ability to demand real protections, justice and accountability, ensuring that women journalists can work without fear, intimidation, or attack.”
In addition to tackling gender-based violence in the media, this convention will bolster NUSOJ’s ongoing crusade against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Somalia – not only within the media industry but also across wider society. The media plays a vital role in exposing and challenging SGBV and NUSOJ is committed to ensuring that both female and male journalists can report safely and freely on these issues without facing reprisals.
Furthermore, this AU Convention will support the implementation of ILO Convention 190 (C190) on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work, reinforcing global efforts to create safe and dignified workplaces. By aligning with these international standards, Somalia has a critical opportunity to enact stronger legal protections, promote workplace safety and eradicate violence and harassment in all professional sectors.
“As a union, we have actively campaigned for this convention at both the continental level and within Somalia, urging our government to support this vital commitment,” Nima added. “Our next priority is ensuring its full domestication and enforcement, so that this milestone brings real and lasting change for women and girls in Somalia.”
NUSOJ remains fully committed to working with national and international partners to translate this convention into concrete legal protections, policy reforms and a safer working environment for all women in Somalia – particularly those in journalism and the wider media industry.
ENDS