Statement by the Union of Domestic, Hotels, Restaurants and Allied Workers of Somalia (USHAHOS)

January 25, 2025

On the Occasion of Human Rights Day: Ending Violence Against Women and Femicide in Somalia

Today, on #HumanRightsDay, we, the Union of Domestic, Hotels, Restaurants, and Allied Workers of Somalia (USHAHOS), stand in solidarity with all women and girls as we reflect on the inalienable rights of every individual. As trade unionists committed to justice and equality, we emphasize the urgent need to protect Somali women and girls from the rampant violence and femicide that threaten their lives, dignity, and security.

Speaking as the President of USHAHOS, Halima Sheikh Rashid reminds us:

“Femicide is the ultimate violation of a woman’s right to life and security. It is a symptom of the structural inequalities and harmful norms that perpetuate gender-based violence in Somalia. As trade unions, we cannot remain silent while women, including our own members, face violence at home, in the workplace, and in our communities. It is our duty to take action.”

The Situation in Somalia

In Somalia, gender-based violence, including femicide, has reached worrying levels. Reports highlight that Somali women and girls are often subjected to violence due to entrenched gender inequalities, cultural norms, and inadequate enforcement of the laws meant to protect them. As trade unions, we have witnessed firsthand the impact of violence on women in the hospitality and domestic sectors, where exploitation and abuse are disturbingly common.

These tragedies are not isolated incidents—they are symptoms of a larger systemic failure to safeguard women’s rights. The voices of Somali women cannot be silenced any longer, and as USHAHOS, we commit to amplifying those voices and demanding justice.

Our Call to Action as Trade Unions

Ending femicide and all forms of violence against women requires collective action from every sector of society. As USHAHOS, we are committed to:

1. Strengthening Advocacy for Legal Protections

• We demand stronger enforcement of laws that protect women and girls from violence, including harsher penalties for perpetrators of femicide and gender-based violence.

• We call for the Somali government to ratify and implement international human rights conventions protecting women’s rights.

2. Empowering Women in the Workforce

• Trade unions have a crucial role in empowering women economically and socially. We pledge to create safe and inclusive workplaces where women can thrive free from harassment or discrimination.

• We will push for fair wages and social protections for women in the domestic, hotel, and restaurant sectors.

3. Challenging Harmful Social Norms

• Cultural attitudes that perpetuate violence against women must be dismantled. USHAHOS will lead awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of gender equality and the rights of women and girls.

4. Supporting Survivors of Violence

• USHAHOS will work to create safe spaces for women who are survivors of violence, including providing legal aid, counseling, and support services.

President Halima Sheikh Rashid’s Call for Unity

“As trade unionists, we are stronger together. The time has come to rise up and protect the lives of Somali women and girls. Femicide is not just a women’s issue—it is a national crisis. Protecting women’s rights is the foundation of a fair and just Somalia, and as trade unions, we must stand at the forefront of this fight.”

Our Commitment to Change

As we conclude the #16DaysofActivism, USHAHOS reaffirms its commitment to ending violence against women and creating a safer Somalia. We call on trade unions, civil society, and all stakeholders to join hands in demanding justice and accountability. Together, we can:

Raise awareness about femicide and gender-based violence.

Advocate for policies that protect women’s rights.

Create workplaces and communities free from violence and fear.

The time to act is now. Let us unite to end femicide and build a Somalia where women and girls can live in safety, dignity, and equality every single day.

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