Somalia’s Parliament Ratifies the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child

In a landmark decision, the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia has overwhelmingly ratified the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, marking a significant step forward in the protection and promotion of the rights of Somali children.

During today’s parliamentary session, 130 members voted in favor of the ratification, 10 opposed, and five abstained. This decisive outcome reflects strong legislative support for the country’s commitment to upholding international human rights agreements, particularly those concerning children.

The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child emphasizes that every child has the right to access essential services, including healthcare, education, and protection from abuse, neglect, and forced marriage. It further encourages member states of the African Union to implement legal, social, and cultural measures that ensure children’s well-being, growth, and future opportunities across the continent.

Speaking at the session, the Speaker of the House highlighted that the ratification of the Charter is part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to safeguard the rights of vulnerable populations. He emphasized that relevant ministries will now begin formulating strategies and action plans to ensure the Charter’s provisions are fully implemented at national and local levels.

Somalia has previously signed several international agreements relating to children’s rights. However, today’s formal ratification positions the country to fully align with African standards for child welfare and protection, strengthening its accountability to both national and international frameworks.

Parliamentarians supporting the Charter emphasized that this move is a historic victory for Somalia’s children. They noted that it not only affirms the government’s commitment to child welfare but also sends a powerful message to families, communities, and institutions about the importance of protecting the youngest and most vulnerable members of society.

Legal experts and child protection advocates have welcomed the ratification, noting that it provides a clear framework for addressing systemic issues affecting children in Somalia, including access to quality education, healthcare, and protection from violence and exploitation. By integrating the Charter’s provisions into national law, Somalia can enhance the effectiveness of its child protection systems and ensure that children’s rights are consistently prioritized across all sectors.

The ratification also strengthens Somalia’s role in regional and continental child welfare initiatives. As an African Union member state, the country is now fully committed to advancing the principles outlined in the Charter, contributing to broader efforts to improve the welfare of children across Africa.

Civil society organizations have praised the Parliament’s decision, describing it as a significant milestone for human rights in Somalia. They have called on government agencies, community leaders, and local institutions to actively participate in implementing the Charter’s provisions and to work collaboratively to protect children from abuse, neglect, and other threats to their well-being.

By endorsing the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, Somalia’s Parliament has demonstrated a strong commitment to the protection of its future generations. This decisive action underscores the country’s dedication to creating a safer, healthier, and more equitable environment for all children, ensuring that their rights are recognized, respected, and effectively safeguarded.