MOGADISHU — Somalia’s top human rights official has raised alarm over the escalating risks posed by the unchecked use of social media, warning that misinformation, online abuse and privacy violations are increasingly undermining fundamental freedoms.
Dr. Maryan Qasim, chairperson of the National Independent Human Rights Commission, said the rapid expansion of digital platforms in Somalia has outpaced efforts to regulate them, leaving users — particularly young people — vulnerable to exploitation and harm.
Speaking at a forum hosted by the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu, focused on social media risks, digital governance and online safety, Qasim stressed that protecting rights in digital spaces must be treated with the same urgency as in the physical world.
“The spread of false information, digital harassment, and violations of privacy are not just technical issues — they are human rights concerns that directly affect dignity, security and freedom of expression,” she said.
Her remarks come as Somalia experiences a surge in internet access and social media use, driven by expanding mobile connectivity and a youthful population. While this has opened new avenues for civic engagement and free expression, it has also exposed gaps in legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.
Qasim emphasized that safeguarding digital rights — including freedom of expression, human dignity and the right to privacy — requires a coordinated response from multiple stakeholders.
“This is a shared responsibility,” she said. “Government institutions, private sector companies, civil society organizations and individual users all have a role to play in ensuring that digital platforms are safe and rights-respecting.”
She called on authorities to strengthen digital governance systems, improve oversight of online platforms and ensure greater accountability for how user data is handled. She also highlighted the need for comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on responsible social media use and digital security.
Analysts at the forum echoed concerns that weak regulatory capacity and limited digital literacy are contributing to the spread of harmful content, including hate speech and disinformation, which can inflame tensions in a country still recovering from decades of conflict.
Participants warned that without urgent reforms, social media could continue to be used as a tool for manipulation and division rather than a platform for constructive dialogue and democratic participation.
Qasim urged policymakers to act swiftly, noting that failure to address these challenges could have long-term consequences for Somalia’s fragile social cohesion and democratic development.
“Our goal should be to ensure that social media becomes a space that protects and promotes human rights — not one that erodes them,” she said.
