Somalia Marks International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists with Strong Calls for Justice, Accountability and Protection of Women Journalists NUSOJ Press Release Posted On 03-11-2025, 06:08AM The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), with the support of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) through the High Commission of Canada in Nairobi, organised a well-attended national commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists in Mogadishu. Held under the theme “Tackling Impunity: Combating Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence Against Women Journalists,” the event brought together government, diplomats, United Nations officials, journalists and civil society actors to call for justice, accountability and stronger protection for Somali journalists. The opening ceremony set a powerful tone for the day. Hassan Moalim Mahmoud, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, served as Chief Guest of Honour, reaffirming the Somali government’s firm commitment to end impunity for crimes committed against journalists. He emphasised that justice and accountability are indispensable for Somalia’s progress and development. The Minister also highlighted the ongoing review of Somalia’s outdated and restrictive Penal Code, which has existed for more than 60 years and has long been criticised for criminalising journalism and freedom of expression. He explained that the reform aims to strengthen freedom of expression and ensure the safety of women journalists, particularly in addressing the growing problem of digital violence. “As journalists are rightly concerned, I have received several presentations and representations from NUSOJ about provisions in this old law that impact the work of journalists. I want to give you good news today: this Penal Code will change. It will protect journalists and uphold your rights and freedoms,” said Minister Hassan Moalim. The event also featured the participation of Somalia’s international partners, whose messages demonstrated strong solidarity with Somali journalists. Ambassador Sebastian Groth, the German Ambassador to Somalia, sent a message of support reaffirming Germany’s continued commitment to media freedom and its consistent advocacy for accountability and justice. He highlighted Germany’s long-standing contribution to the Global Media Defence Fund, from which NUSOJ has benefited through several grants. He reaffirmed that protecting journalists remains one of Germany’s highest priorities and a cornerstone of democracy, noting that ending impunity is critical to strengthening institutions and safeguarding human rights. Representing the Government of Canada, Joshua Tabah, Canada’s Ambassador-designate to Somalia, virtually addressed the commemoration and reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast commitment to media freedom and gender equality, particularly in defending women journalists. He noted that Canada’s support for NUSOJ through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) provides practical assistance to empower Somali journalists, especially women, to work safely in newsrooms, in the field and online, while helping media institutions address gender-based violence. Ambassador Tabah emphasized that the fight against impunity for crimes committed against journalists is vital for media freedom to take root and for democracy to flourish. In his address, Ambassador Pier Mario D’Acci, Italian Ambassador to Somalia, reiterated Italy’s strong belief in the freedom and responsibility of journalists. He stressed that media freedom cannot thrive without protection from threats and violence, calling for all crimes against journalists to be investigated and prosecuted. The Ambassador noted that freedom of information and expression are crucial for rebuilding the nation and that this forum provided an important opportunity to exchange ideas and build protection mechanisms both in Somalia and globally. Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, Special