Last Change:
04/08/2025
Somalia Refugees and Asylum Seekers Law
Year: 2023
Type: Domestic law
Rights Category: Asylum, Education, Freedom of movement, Health, Housing, land & property, Liberty & security of person, Social protection, Work & Workplace rights, Family life, Documentation
Description
This law establishes a legal framework for refugee protection, asylum procedures, and rights in line with international conventions. It aims to regulate the status, rights, and responsibilities of refugees and asylum-seekers in Somalia.
Selected provisions
If the Committee is convinced that there are reasonable grounds to believe that a person recognized as a refugee was wrongly granted such status or that their refugee status has ceased under this law, the Committee may revoke their refugee status at any time.
A refugee lawfully residing in the Federal Republic of Somalia shall not be expelled except for reasons related to national security or public order.
The Head of the Agency, in consultation with relevant government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies, shall facilitate the establishment of reception centers or refugee camps to accommodate arriving asylum seekers and refugees.
The integration and settlement of refugees within host communities to achieve durable solutions, self-sufficiency, and independence for refugees.
While carrying out its obligations under this law, the Federal Government shall make special efforts to protect the interests of vulnerable persons, including women, unaccompanied children, separated children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and
other vulnerable individuals who have specific needs requiring special protection
Receive an identification card certifying their asylum status
Every asylum seeker has the right to access education.
Pending a decision on their refugee status application, asylum seekers have the right to freedom of movement unless restricted for reasons of national security, public order, or public health.
The rights provided to asylum seekers under Paragraphs (1) and (3) also apply to the family members of asylum seekers.