Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs It is a specialized, independent, non-profit media network that observes and follows up the Somali humanitarian scene
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MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia, through the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, has officially adopted the nation’s first-ever National Labour Migration Policy, marking a significant milestone in efforts to regulate labour migration, safeguard workers’ rights, and promote sustainable employment opportunities.
The newly adopted policy aims to establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework that facilitates safe, orderly, and dignified migration for Somali workers—both regionally and internationally. It also seeks to strengthen coordination with major destination countries and international partners to tackle the challenges of irregular migration and labour exploitation.
The policy outlines the creation of formal mechanisms for overseas employment, enhanced protection of labour rights, access to legal remedies, and the provision of pre-departure training and orientation for migrant workers. It also calls for the negotiation of bilateral agreements with host countries and the development of data systems to monitor labour migration trends.
With a significant portion of Somalia’s population under the age of 30 and facing limited domestic job opportunities, the government views labour migration as a vital pathway for economic growth and poverty alleviation.
The policy was developed in close collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other development partners, following consultations with civil society organizations, private sector stakeholders, and Somali diaspora networks.
International experts and labour rights advocates have welcomed the policy, describing it as a transformative framework that can help reduce the risks of human trafficking, exploitation, and undocumented migration—issues that have long impacted Somali job seekers abroad.
The implementation of the policy will be supported by new legislation, institutional reforms, and nationwide public awareness campaigns. The Ministry has committed to working closely with federal member states to ensure the policy is applied consistently across the country.
This development comes as Somalia deepens its engagement with international partners to expand legal pathways for labour mobility and strengthen its integration into regional and global labour markets.
Source: FTL Origin: view original
