NETWORK AGAINST FGM/C IN SOMALILAND

Report on
Quarterly justice forum meetings to increase access of vulnerable groups to Justice for CSOs,
law enforcement bodies, human rights defenders, and traditional leaders.

Funded by IDLO
Facilitated by
Name: Mohamed Abdirisak Mohamed
Title: Project Officer
Signature:

Approved by:
Name:
Title:
Signature:

Hargeisa, Somaliland
Date: 08/Nov/ 2023

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1. Introduction

Network Against Female Genital Mutilation in Somaliland (NAFIS) Organization currently

continue and engaging of implementation of Damal access to justice project under theme of
“strengthening the social contract through access to justice in eastern regions of Somaliland”
namely ( Sool, Sanaag and Marodijeex and Togdheer) , NAFIS received project fund from the
International Development Law Organization under Kingdom of Netherland , in line ministry,
Somaliland Ministry of justice is overall coordination of the project due to the enhancing,
effectively and efficiency of formal and informal justice system and justice actors of Somaliland
services rendering institutions through capacitating on law enforcement agencies , Police,
Prosecutors, lawyers, community paralegals, adjudicators, justice seekers, community management
committee , Traditional leaders , human right defenders, social workers, Civil society
organizations , women grassroots and sexual gender-based violence prevention existing networks.

In a significant effort to enhance access to justice, the NAFIS Network organized a quarterly justice
forum meeting in Hargeisa on November 8, 2023. The primary objective of this gathering, held at
the Imperial Hotel, was to foster the development and expansion of justice initiatives for civil society
organizations (CSOs), law enforcement bodies, human rights defenders, and traditional leaders. Mr.
Mohamed Abdilahi, the deputy director from the Ministry of Justice (MOJ), officially kickoff the
session by extending a warm welcome to all participants. He emphasized the importance of active
engagement, knowledge sharing, and effective participation, encouraging attendees to play a pivotal
role in proposing a significant and impactful list of measures to improve access to justice for
vulnerable communities within the region. Additionally, Mr. Mohamed Abdilahi expressed gratitude
towards the NAFIS Network for their unwavering commitment and dedication to eradicating
exploitation and injustice within these marginalized communities.

2. Objectives
• Brief about the meeting objectives

• Brief about DAMAL structure

• ADR progress updates, Number of cases received, and services provided.

• Overall challenges in accessing justice for the vulnerable communities in the region

• Discuss challenges in accessing justice for GBV survivors

• Action plan and the way forward.

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3. Participants

The session brought together a total of 30 participants, comprising 18 women and 12 men
representing various organizations and institutions, who actively participated in the session from
start to finish. Their level of engagement was commendable, as they contributed to critical
discussions centered around the topic at hand. Throughout the duration of the session, they
consistently shared valuable information and shared personal stories highlighting the complexities
and difficulties associated with delivering justice to vulnerable communities. Their collective efforts
fostered an environment of knowledge exchange and facilitated a deeper understanding of the
challenges involved in ensuring justice for marginalized populations.
Institution Frequency
SONYO 1
Local government 1
Traditional 2
Grass root women’s organizations 3
VOSOMWA 2
Ministry of Employment Social and Family -MESAF 2
Prosecutors 1
UOH 1
Youth 5
BVO 1
DAN 1
Y-PEER 1
ADR 1
GGQ 1
SOLA 1
Disability 1
Courts 1
Legal aid 1
SNDF 1
Milgo Org. 1
Al-amin 1

4. Methodologies

The gathering was one day-long discussion session, extending from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., during
which the attendees actively exchanged their perspectives on the crucial matter of attaining justice
for marginalized groups residing in the Maroodi-Jeeh region. The session commenced with a concise
introduction outlining the proposed agenda and the collaborative group work that would take place.
Importantly, the meeting welcomed individuals from all backgrounds, encouraging a diverse range
of ideas and fostering the potential for lasting solutions. Following the vibrant discussions,
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participants unveiled a comprehensive account of the obstacles hindering access to justice for
vulnerable communities. Notably, each point raised during the deliberations was duly recognized as
a critical challenge impeding the realization of justice for these vulnerable communities.

5. Duration and Organization of training

The forum was 1 full day from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It was a very informative, experience sharing,
and the participants were keen on the contents of the forum.

6. Ground rules

The ground rules were set and agreed upon with the participants before the commencement of the
session, they suggested that these rules will facilitate the meeting to conduct smoothly, and
participants aware in more responsible ways and respect others’ views and ideas.
 Silent phones
 Stop unnecessary movements.
 Active participation
 Respect for a person’s view
 Active listening
 Class discussion, group work, & brainstorming
 Providing reliable feedback and accurate information

7. Session:
The meeting marked the third quarterly justice forum, which took place in Hargeisa, as part of an
ongoing project aimed at enhancing access to justice for vulnerable groups, including women, girls,
minorities, and individuals with disabilities. Attendees were provided with an introductory overview
of the project, which encompassed a comprehensive understanding of the functioning and
procedures of the ADR Center. The session also emphasized the significance of justice as a
fundamental principle, underscoring its pivotal role in ensuring a fair and equitable society.
Participants were given an overview of the prevailing challenges experienced in accessing justice
within the region, serving as a backdrop for a critical and thought-provoking discussion centered
around the specific obstacles faced by vulnerable communities when seeking justice. By delving into
these complexities, the meeting aimed to identify practical solutions and strategies to overcome these
challenges and forge a path towards increased access to justice for all members of society especially
vulnerable.

Challenges identified:

1. One of the prominent challenges is the low financial status experienced by vulnerable
communities. Limited economic resources hinder their ability to secure legal representation and
navigate the complex justice system.
2. Another obstacle is the lack of community awareness and mobilization. Insufficient knowledge
about legal rights and available resources makes it challenging for individuals to seek justice or
advocate for their rights effectively.
3. Cultural barriers also pose a significant challenge. Deep-rooted cultural norms, practices, and
traditions may impede access to justice, particularly for marginalized groups, by perpetuating
discrimination and bias.
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4. Lack of confidence and reliability in the courts and legal workers further complicates matters. If
vulnerable individuals do not trust the justice system, they may hesitate to seek legal redress,
fearing unfair treatment or further victimization.

5. Fear and shame experienced by survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) can deter them from
reporting crimes or seeking justice. The stigma attached to being a victim may prevent survivors
from accessing the legal remedies available to them.
6. Delays in court justice procedures create additional challenges. Lengthy legal processes can
frustrate individuals seeking justice, leading to a loss of faith in the system and discouraging
future attempts at seeking redress.
7. Insufficient justice infrastructure, such as awareness-raising institutions and an inadequate
presence of justice and legal professionals, contributes to the difficulty of accessing justice.
Limited resources and capacity hinder the provision of legal aid and support services.
8. A lack of legal knowledge among vulnerable communities further exacerbates the challenges
they face. Without understanding their rights, legal procedures, and available resources,
individuals may struggle to navigate the justice system effectively.
9. Traditional leaders, who hold significant influence in the communities, can also present
challenges to attaining fair and just outcomes. If traditional systems do not prioritize or uphold
principles of equality and fairness, it can undermine efforts to access justice for vulnerable
communities.
10. Discrimination and bias against vulnerable communities compound the difficulties they
encounter when seeking justice. Prejudices based on factors such as gender, ethnicity, or social
status can result in unequal treatment and hinder access to fair legal processes.
11. The district's notable gender inequality, with men dominating in terms of access, resources, and
opportunities, presents an additional challenge. Gender disparities can limit the ability of
vulnerable individuals, particularly women, to access justice and exercise their rights fully.

8. Action plans and the way forward

 Implementation of community mobilization and awareness-raising forums, trainings, media channels, and
publications should be prioritized. These initiatives will help disseminate information about legal rights,
available resources, and the avenues for seeking justice to vulnerable communities, fostering a greater
understanding and empowerment within the population.
 It is crucial to establish effective punishment and penalties to prevent violences against vulnerable
communities. By implementing strict consequences for perpetrators, society can deter potential offenders
and create a safer environment for those at risk.
 Encouraging communities and individuals to share any instances of human rights violations with each
other and collaborate in seeking justice is essential. This collective approach can provide support and
solidarity to victims, amplifying their voices and strengthening their pursuit of justice.
 Individuals must be equipped with knowledge of human rights acts and legal principles. Accessible and
comprehensive education programs should be implemented to ensure that everyone understands their
rights, legal processes, and the available avenues for seeking justice.
 Respecting the rights and dignity of vulnerable communities is paramount. It is imperative for society as a
whole to cultivate an environment that promotes empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, fostering a
culture of respect for all individuals.

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 To enhance access to justice, the establishment of justice centers like ADR Center and community courts
should be expanded. Moreover, these centers should be strategically located in remote villages and
districts to ensure ease of access for vulnerable communities, removing geographical barriers to justice.
 Training programs should be developed to educate advocates and individuals who can support and defend
the rights of vulnerable communities. Equipping these advocates with the necessary skills and knowledge
will enable them to provide effective guidance, representation, and advocacy to those in need of justice.

9. Annexes

Annex 1 participant list

Participant’s name Org Tell #days

1 baashe xaaji ismacil Tradaional 4769112 1
2 khadar saleeban xandule legal aid 4188104 1
3 axmed siciid yuusuf Tradaional 4782921 1
4 maxamed ismaacil saleeban Disability 659022530 1
5 sakariye dayib aadan sola 4259704 1
6 mawliid siyaad maxamed YOUTH 4101224 1
7 cabdinaasir jirde maax Youth 4133201 1
8 khadar cabdi ibraahim GGQ 4141761 1
9 cabdiqani xasan axmed Tradaional 4455664 1
10 muxiyadiin maxamed muxumed D.H.H 4040068 1
11 fadxiya good muxumed D wadaag 4151039 1
12 deeqa cabdi maxamed W cadalada 4250428 1
13 Khadiir Fuad hassan youth 4075389 1
14 saamiya axmed xasan ADR 4194251 1
15 faadima maxamed jaamac Y PEER 4929996 1
16 hodon maxamed cali low 4422666 1
17 ancaan fuaad xasan Youth 4253783 1
18 hodon axmed maxamuud DAN 7818120 1
19 najma maxamed ismaacil BVO 3826349 1
20 hodon sacad saleeban YOUTH 4190132 1
21 hoodo biixi cabdiramxaan UOH 4848606 1
22 Amiira Hamse Maxamed MESAF 3428068 1
22 asma cabdiraxmaan yuusuf MEDAF 3387616 1
24 hana aadan saed Sonyo 9067228 1
25 naciima yuusuf faarax UOH 6996659 1
26 hoodo cabdi muuse VOSOMWO 6194668 1
27 canad cali madal ALLA AMIIN 4434434 1
28 salma xuseen daahir SNDF 3992464 1
29 HODO Ali abdi Milgo org 4402204 1
30 Khadar abdilahi hashi VOSOMWO 1

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Annex 2- photos