Somalia military court sentences four children to death

International response

British non-governmental organization Save The Children issued a statement through its Somalia Country Director.

Mr. Muhamud Mohamed said, ‘We are deeply concerned about these sentences. Sentencing adolescents to death and long-term imprisonment – regardless of their crime – does not work as a deterrent, and certainly isn’t in line with global standards to which Somalia has accepted.

These boys deserve a chance at rehabilitation, and we urge the government to ensure justice.

We urge the government of Puntland to strengthen enforcement and implementation of the Puntland Juvenile Justice Act, to protect and treat all children under the age of 18 in line with child rights standards.’

The organization works with the Somali government and different communities to uphold children’s rights to survive, learn and be protected.

According to the organization, it says the government should ensure adequate legal representation and implement child justice principles. These prioritise child diversion, rehabilitation, and reintegration into families and communities.

The organization says the military court’s ruling violates the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which the East African nation ratified in 2015.

The UN youth justice system’s objective is to reduce the number of young people reoffending. These services and programs should emphasize the importance of maintaining links with family and the community.

The Somali government should protect children from recruitment and joining of armed groups. There is still a chance for a better future through rehabilitation and integration with the community.