Today, 25 November, the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—a day of global solidarity, remembrance, and commitment. CRPD, a women-led organization in Somalia, this day carries deep significance. It is both a reminder of the urgent challenges facing Somali women and girls, and a moment to renew our determination to build a safer, more just, and more dignified future for all.
The Reality in Somalia
Violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread and under-addressed human rights violations in Somalia. Decades of conflict, displacement, economic hardship, and weak institutions have created conditions where women face multiple forms of abuse, including:
Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
Sexual violence, rape, and physical assault continue to affect women and girls—especially those in IDP settlements and marginalized communities.
Harmful traditional practices
Practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage remain deeply rooted, often justified under cultural norms but causing lifelong physical and psychological harm.
Domestic and intimate partner violence
Many cases go unreported due to stigma, lack of services, and limited accountability mechanisms.
Barriers to justice
Survivors often face intimidation, discrimination, and a justice system that is difficult to navigate or inaccessible in many areas.
Despite these challenges, Somali women have always been powerful agents of resilience and change.
CRPD’s Commitment
As a women-led organization, CRPD works to advance gender equality, strengthen legal protections, and empower women and girls across Somalia. Our commitment includes:
Advocacy for stronger laws, including effective implementation of GBV and child protection frameworks.
Community engagement to challenge harmful norms and support behavior change.
Capacity building for women leaders, youth advocates, and local organizations.
Support to survivors, through referrals, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with service providers.
What Needs to Happen Now
Ending violence against women in Somalia requires coordinated and sustained action:
Stronger legal enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable.
Investment in prevention, especially community-led initiatives that address harmful norms.
Increased support services, including shelters, trauma counselling, and medical care.
Economic empowerment for women and girls—because empowerment reduces vulnerability.
Meaningful participation of women in decision-making at every level.
A Message of Solidarity
On this global day of awareness, CRPD stands in solidarity with every survivor, advocate, activist, and ally working to end violence against women in Somalia and around the world. Violence against women is not inevitable—it is preventable. And together, by listening, supporting, and acting boldly, we can build a Somalia where every woman and girl lives free from fear and full of hope.
CRPD reiterates its commitment today and every day: Violence against women must end.