Somalilandsun: There has been controversy surrounding the development of new legislation in Somalia addressing sexual offences, at a time when incidences of rape and other sexual violence have become rampant and impunity is pervasive.
Two different bills on sexual offences have been drafted by different sources. However, the content and implications of each bill have not been adequately explained in public, leading to tensions fed by confusion and misapprehension rather than informed discussion.
A brief by the Somali Public Agenda outlines the content of each bill and draws out the key comparisons and differences. It recommends harmonizing the two bills, conducting wider public awareness activities on the proposed legislation, aligning the legislation to Somalia’s Penal Code, and strengthening the judiciary, police, and prosecution institutions.
