Somalia is grappling with one of the world’s most complex humanitarian crises. The country faces a substantial displacement crisis affecting approximately 3,861,643 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), representing approximately 20% of Somalia’s entire population in accordance with the updated displacement figures from the Protection Return and Monitoring Network (PRMN). This situation underscores the profound scale of displacement within the country and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
The Scale of Displacement
As of May 2024, the PRMN explains the scale of displacement as follows: 3,861,643 IDPs, 18,559 Refugees, and 20,727 asylum seekers in all regions of Somalia. These aren’t just numbers; they represent lives uprooted by recurrent droughts, floods, conflict, and insecurity, resulting in widespread loss of livelihoods and compelling many Somalis to seek refuge and stability elsewhere. Government assessments indicate that the vulnerabilities faced by IDPs predominantly stem from inadequate security, land tenure, lack of basic services and limited opportunities for self-reliance, manifesting in various challenges.
A New Dawn: The Draft IDP Law 2022
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Federal Government of Somalia has been working tirelessly to enhance its policy framework addressing displacement. While previous efforts, such as the proposed “IDP 2020 law” and the National Protection Policy for Refugees, IDPs, and Returnees, did not progress beyond the draft stage, current efforts continue through the National Commission of Refugees and IDPs (NCRI).
The NCRI has developed the Draft IDP Law 2022, which was approved by the Council of Ministers and presented to Parliament for deliberation and approval in October 2023. As of July 2024, a parliamentary review of the draft law is ongoing. This law is seen to be more than another piece of legislation but a crucial lifeline for millions of people.
Key objectives of the proposed New IDP Law include:
- Safeguarding the rights of communities affected by displacement
- Mitigation of forced evictions
- Provision of equitable access to essential services (healthcare, education, water, protection, and housing, land, and property rights)
- Integration of displaced persons into decision-making processes at various levels
- Ensuring equal support to host communities from government institutions
- Empowerment of displaced individuals to seek remedy and justice through the judicial system
- Reduction of new displacement from urban centers
- Enhancement of coordination among government institutions
The Power of Collaboration

What makes this law unique is the collaborative effort behind it. The Regional Durable Solutions Secretariat (ReDSS) Somalia has been at the forefront, undertaking comprehensive engagement with key stakeholders to conduct a thorough review of the Draft IDP law (2022). Their efforts include:
- Translating the law from Somali to English for broader accessibility
- Issuing a brief analytical paper comparing the current draft with previous versions
- Initiating discussions with the Somali NGO consortium to foster inclusive dialogue
- Organizing consultative meetings with advocacy groups and displaced communities
- Formulating a collaborative policy paper incorporating recommendations from various actors
- Implementing an advocacy plan through workshops and formal gatherings with relevant stakeholders
This inclusive approach ensures that the voices of those most affected are heard and incorporated into the final law. It also supports parliamentary committees and relevant agencies/ministries in their review process, guiding amendments before the law is ratified.
Looking Ahead
As Somalia moves closer to finalizing this crucial legislation, the collaborative approach taken here sets a precedent for how complex humanitarian challenges can be addressed through inclusive policymaking. It allows various actors to contribute to the review process, fostering a better understanding of Somalia’s displacement situation and current efforts to address it.
In accordance with the Constitution of Somalia ratified on 1st August 2012, every Somali citizen has the right to live with dignity, respect, and enjoy a fulfilling life, which can be achieved through inclusive and comprehensive legal frameworks and policies. Additionally, the proposed law aims to define the roles and responsibilities of various agencies and institutions in supporting and safeguarding the rights of displaced people. While challenges remain, the new IDP law represents a significant step forward. It aims to empower displaced individuals to exercise their constitutional rights fully and promises to reshape the landscape for millions of displaced Somalis.
As we await the outcome of the parliamentary review, one thing is clear: this landmark legislation has the potential to change the lives of millions. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when humanitarian actors, development partners, and displaced communities come together in pursuit of a common goal. Its successful passage through the review process, incorporating feedback from stakeholders including IDPs, would represent a significant milestone for the Somali government and a cause for celebration among communities affected by displacement.