Somalia Women and Child Care Association (SWCCA) and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) conducted a two-day roundtable discussion on the 11th and 12th of October 2023 in Somalia. The central objective of this gathering was to increase the participation of women and girls in public life, promote human rights, and protect civic space within Somalia.

The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as it brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including parliamentarians, civil society organizations (CSOs), disabled persons organizations (DPOs), internally displaced persons (IDPs), women groups, university students, youth representatives, and marginalized groups. The inclusion of such a wide variety of voices ensured a comprehensive and holistic approach towards addressing the challenges faced by women and girls in Somalia.

During the roundtable discussions, participants engaged in meaningful conversations, sharing valuable insights and experiences. They delved into the specific hurdles encountered by women and girls in accessing public spaces and decision-making platforms. The discussions also explored the prevailing societal norms and cultural barriers that perpetuate gender inequality. Through this open and honest dialogue, participants were able to identify the root causes of these challenges and propose innovative solutions to overcome them.

One of the key outcomes of this gathering was the recognition that championing women’s and girls’ rights is not the responsibility of a single entity but rather a collective effort. It requires the active involvement and collaboration of all sectors of society, including government bodies, CSOs, and communities. This recognition was further reinforced by the presence of parliamentarians and other decision-makers at the roundtable discussion, who demonstrated their commitment to supporting policies and legislation that promote gender equality and empower women and girls.

Furthermore, the importance of youth representation and involvement cannot be understated. Young people are the future leaders of Somalia and their perspectives, ideas, and energy must be harnessed to drive positive change. The inclusion of university students and youth representatives in the roundtable discussions ensured that their voices were heard and their concerns were addressed. This not only empowered the youth in their own right but also demonstrated the value and significance of intergenerational dialogue and cooperation.

In conclusion, the roundtable discussion organized by SWCCA and UNSOM showcased commendable efforts to increase women’s and girls’ inclusion in public life, promote human rights, and protect civic space within Somalia. The gathering of a diverse range of stakeholders allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by women and girls and facilitated the development of innovative solutions. The commitment and collaboration demonstrated by all participants, including parliamentarians, CSOs, youth representatives, and marginalized groups, highlights the collective responsibility of society to ensure gender equality and the active participation of women and girls in decision-making processes.