In a landmark achievement for child rights and military reform, Somalia has been officially removed from the United Nations’ list of countries implicated in the recruitment and use of child soldiers. The decision follows nearly two decades of efforts to align national practices with international child protection standards.
The announcement, made on June 17, marks the first time Somalia is absent from the UN’s annual report since 2007, when the country was listed for the involvement of minors in government-aligned forces and armed groups.
The Somali Ministry of Defense welcomed the decision, describing it as “a testament to Somalia’s commitment to protecting its youth and upholding international humanitarian law.” Officials emphasized that Somali children should be “seen as the future of the nation, not participants in war.”
Years of Reforms and Global Cooperation
Somalia’s removal from the list is the result of years of structured reforms supported by global partners. A National Action Plan was implemented to address underage recruitment, introducing clear screening protocols, child protection training for security personnel, revised military codes of conduct, and independent monitoring systems.
Support from organizations such as UNICEF, the United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), and other international agencies was critical in shaping and enforcing these changes. The Child Protection Committee, led by the Ministry of Defense, also played a central role in policy coordination.
Despite this progress, the Somali government acknowledged that serious challenges remain. Non-state armed groups, particularly al-Shabaab, continue to forcibly recruit children in areas beyond government control. Authorities pledged to intensify local protection efforts and engage more directly with at-risk communities.
Continued Oversight and Commitment
While celebrating this milestone, Somali officials confirmed that the country will remain under periodic review by the United Nations to ensure continued compliance with child protection standards. The government says it is committed to preventing regression and safeguarding the gains made.
“This is not the end of the journey, but a new chapter,” said one senior official. “We will continue to invest in our young people and protect them from the forces that seek to rob them of their childhood.”