COMMON ANALYSIS
Last update: October 2025
5.2.1. Al-Shabaab
The analysis below is based on the following EUAA COI reports: Security 2025, 1.2.2., 2.3.1.(b); Actors 2021, 4.3., 4.4.; Targeting 2021, 3.1.; Country Guidance should not be referred to as a source of COI.
Al-Shabaab has established a parallel justice system in areas under its control, including mobile courts that operate even beyond its territory, including in Mogadishu. These courts enforce a strict interpretation of Sharia law, often resulting in executions and corporal punishments. While some civilians turned to these courts for swift rulings on civil disputes, due process is lacking - there is no legal representation, no appeals, and decisions are often arbitrary.
The lack of due process and the nature of the punishments would not qualify the parallel justice mechanism operated by Al-Shabaab as a legitimate form of protection. Further taking into account its record of human rights violations, it can be concluded that Al-Shabaab does not qualify as an actor of protection who is able to provide effective, non-temporary and accessible protection.