The Somali Child Rights Coalition (SCRC) welcomes and appreciates the approval of the Offences of Rape and Indecency Bill (ORIB), formerly known as the Sexual Offences Bill, by the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia. The Bill was approved during the 24th sitting of the 8th session, with 132 Members of Parliament voting in favour, three against, and five abstaining. This milestone represents significant progress in Somalia’s efforts to strengthen legal protection against sexual violence and gender-based violence. It also marks an important moment for women, girls, children, survivors, and all those who have consistently advocated for stronger legal safeguards and access to justice.

SCRC recognizes the longstanding contribution of civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s rights organizations, child rights advocates, human rights defenders, and community-based organizations that have sustained advocacy for approximately 15 years to advance the adoption of comprehensive legislation addressing sexual offences in Somalia. Through awareness-raising, policy dialogue, engagement with government institutions, community mobilization, and persistent calls for accountability and justice, CSOs have played an important role in keeping this critical issue on the national agenda. The parliamentary approval is therefore not only a legislative achievement but also a reflection of years of collective advocacy, determination, and commitment by civil society and other stakeholders working to protect the rights and dignity of women and girls.

SCRC commends the Federal Parliament, the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development, and all stakeholders who contributed to this important progress. SCRC calls on the relevant institutions to expedite the remaining legislative procedures required for the Bill to become law and to ensure its effective implementation. The Coalition further urges the government, justice institutions, CSOs, and community stakeholders to strengthen prevention, survivor-centred support services, and accountability mechanisms. This achievement must mark the beginning of effective implementation and stronger protection, ensuring that every woman and girl in Somalia can live free from sexual violence and access justice without discrimination.

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