Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi has inaugurated a two-day national conference aimed at overhauling the country’s justice institutions. The gathering, which is the first of its kind in 14 years, brings together judicial officials, legal experts, and civil society representatives to review the state of the justice sector and identify priority reforms. The conference is organized by the Ministry of Justice with support from international partners, including the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union.

According to President Abdillahi, a credible, independent, and efficient justice system is essential to Somaliland’s stability, governance, and long-term development. He emphasized that equal access to justice for all citizens, regardless of social status, clan background, or economic standing, is crucial for sustainable progress. The president noted that the conference provides an opportunity for stakeholders to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the judiciary and propose practical recommendations.

The conference aims to outline a roadmap for modernizing Somaliland’s justice institutions, enhancing transparency, and ensuring that fundamental rights are protected across the country. President Abdillahi pledged that his administration would adopt and act on the recommendations emerging from the conference, as part of its commitment to constitutional oversight, judicial independence, and the rule of law. Improving access to justice and restoring public trust in the courts remain a core priority of his administration.

Somaliland’s justice system has faced challenges in recent years, including concerns over fairness and legal enforcement. The government has pledged to address these grievances and strengthen the sector. The conference is a significant step towards achieving this goal, as it provides a platform for stakeholders to share their expertise and experience. The outcomes of the conference are expected to inform the government’s efforts to reform the justice sector and promote the rule of law in Somaliland.

The international community has welcomed the initiative, with partners such as the UNDP and the European Union providing support to the conference. The event underscores the importance of collaboration between governments, international organizations, and civil society in promoting justice and human rights. As Somaliland continues to develop its justice institutions, the conference is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s legal framework and promoting stability and governance.