Somalia is a focus country for the Dutch government. The socio-economic starting point in Somalia is challenging. Due to rising levels of violent extremism and conflict, public services are absent in many (rural) parts of the country. The absence of state institutions, has reduced citizens’ trust in the state. In this context, the Netherlands supports Somalia in strengthening the rule of law sector, through enhancing the provision of basic services and security for its people. Moreover, the Netherlands invests in improving prospects for young people in Somalia by investing in education, jobs and the link between them.

Our work is guided by our Multi Annual Country Strategy 2023-2026 , which has six central objectives that are outlined in this video.
 

Economic Development: Skills & Jobs 

With Nexus Skills and Jobs, the Netherlands is improving prospects for young people in Somalia by investing in education, jobs and the link between them. The same programme has been launched in seven other countries: Lebanon, Jordan, Ethiopia, Burundi, Burkina Faso, Niger and Senegal.

Investments that improve young people’s prospects pay dividends many times over. Not only do they increase young people’s chances of getting decent work, education and a life in dignity – things that the Netherlands believes everyone has a right to. But, in the case of Somalia, opportunities for young people also enhance security and prosperity. This makes the country more stable. And if a stable Somalia curbs radicalization and extremism, the whole Horn of Africa benefits, and the Netherlands too.

Security and Rule of Law

Security and a fair legal system contribute to a country’s national stability. This is particularly important if governance is weak. In some cases, the safety of civilians may be directly at risk. To promote stability, the Netherlands engages in people-centered justice, enhanced local governance and addressing grievances through transitional justice mechanism in Somalia.  

 

Somalia is suffering from a lack of functioning, accountable and accessible state institutions. Coupled with perceived high levels of corruption, this has eroded citizens’ confidence in the state, especially the younger generations. The deteriorating security situation has made it even more difficult for women, men and children to access justice.

 

The Netherlands believes an effective legal order is an essential condition for (economic) growth and development. The Dutch government therefore wants to strengthen security and the rule of law in countries where governance is poor. To address the multiple rule of law challenges Somalia is facing, the Netherlands works with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, civil society organizations and the United Nations.

 

Read more about it here.