COMMON ANALYSIS
Last update: August 2023
The humanitarian situation in Somalia remained precarious during the reference period, making the country one of the least developed countries [Security 2023, 1.4.3., p. 49]. People in Somalia face continuous socio-economic challenges due to high poverty and highly precarious conditions regarding employment, housing, food and water supplies. Besides violent conflicts, climatic shocks, among which droughts and floods, lead to displacements and contribute to vulnerabilities [KSEI 2021, 1.1.2., p.15].
Additionally, it has been reported that Al-Shabaab continued to hinder commercial activities in the areas it controlled and disrupted the delivery of humanitarian aid, thus affecting health, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene programming [Security 2021, 2.1.1.3., p. 52]. For example, in Galgaduud, Al-Shabaab reportedly deprived residents of access to healthcare by taking over one hospital and closing down another one [Security 2023, 2.5.1. p. 145].
It has also been reported that Laas Canood’s main hospital has come under attack twice in February 2023 [COI Update 2023, 1.3.6., p. 20]
It is important to note that serious harm must take the form of conduct of an actor (Article 6 QD). In itself, the general unavailability of healthcare, education or other socio-economic elements (e.g. situation of IDPs, difficulties in finding livelihood opportunities, housing) is not considered to fall within the scope of inhuman or degrading treatment under Article 15(b) QD, unless there is intentional conduct of an actor.
When such conditions are the result of an intentional conduct of an actor, they may qualify under Article 15(b) QD.