Somalia
Grave Violations
- 2,195 grave violations against 1,703 children (1,286 boys, 417 girls).
- 701 children (679 boys, 22 girls) were recruited and used.
- 91 children (85 boys, 6 girls) were detained for alleged association with armed groups. They were all released.
- Killing (161) and maiming (312) of 473 children (324 boys, 149 girls).
- Sexual violence was perpetrated against 201 girls.
- Attacks on schools (31) and hospitals (1).
- 785 children (670 boys, 115 girls) were abducted.
- 3 incidents of the denial of humanitarian access were verified.
Current situation
Throughout 2025, shifts in conflict dynamics resulted in changes to the most affected regions compared to 2024, with an increase in verified grave violations in Lower Shabelle and Galguduud, largely linked to Al-Shabaab and clan militia activity. Of particular concern is the persistently high number of grave violations attributed to Al-Shabaab, including a notable rise in 2025 in abductions and threats against teachers accused by the group of not adhering to its imposed curriculum.
Developments and Concerns
- Welcome the signing of the 2025 road map and call upon the Federal Government to address the remaining grave violations, including killing and maiming and sexual violence.
- Commend the rollout by the Federal Government of the age assessment guidelines and standardized checklist, and the implementation of the 2014 Standard Operating Procedure for the handover of children allegedly associated with armed groups.