Mogadishu, 12 December 2024 – The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has pledged to uphold International Humanitarian and Human Rights Laws in all its operations, emphasizing accountability and civilian protection.
This commitment was made during a symposium organized by ATMIS Protection, Human Rights, and Gender (PHRG) Cluster on Human Rights Day, 10 December, which also marked the conclusion of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV).
“We must ensure our policies are effective, enhance engagement with our communities and promote the culture of accountability as we conduct our operations. I encourage you to critically evaluate this and identify any shortcomings so we can continuously improve the frameworks and systems that have been established,” said Sivuyile Thandikhaya Bam, Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (DSRCC) for Somalia, at the symposium’s closing on Tuesday.
“In our work, we must ensure we do no harm to those we work with and the host nation. That is the bottom line,” said Mr. Bam, emphasizing the events role in peacekeeping operations.
“As practitioners on the ground, we need to acknowledge that issues of compliance, civilian protection and our code of conduct, are evolving matters. Therefore, as the commanders and personnel who confront situations requiring decisions, you are the ones who must provide feedback about those experiences,” he added.
ATMIS uniformed and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) personnel discussed key topics, including International Human Rights Law (IHRL), International Humanitarian Law (IHL), the African Union Compliance and Accountability Framework.
They explored enhancing compliance through the implementation of the Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP) and the revised African Union Rules of Engagement (RoE), aligning with the ATMIS’ mandate to strengthen civilian protection.
The symposium reinforces ATMIS’ commitment to human rights and accountability in its peace operations, contributing to Somalia’s stability in accordance with international legal frameworks.
Human Rights Day celebrates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, promoting awareness and respect for human rights.
