On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the United States salutes representatives of the Somalia media who, despite continuing threats to their safety remain committed to provide news and information to the Somali people. This year, Somalia witnessed terror acts that left journalists dead or severely wounded, and we applaud those who exhibit the courage to deliver accurate and timely news.
The United States notes that, according to the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), Somalia has a decrease in the cases of government-sanctioned violations against media representatives since the beginning of the year.
NUSOJ attributes the decline to frequent consultations between journalists’ representatives and senior government officials.
The United States commends the Federal Government of the Republic of Somalia, and in particular the Ministry of Information, for their support of the freedom of expression. We encourage the government’s continued efforts to safeguard journalists’ right to practice their craft free of interference and threats.
Statement
