The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and the United Nations Joint Working Group (JWG) on Human Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP) held a crucial meeting on Sunday to deliberate on essential aspects for the implementation of the United Nations HRDDP within ATMIS. The primary focus of the meeting centered on the safeguarding of civilians during Phase 2 of ATMIS drawdown.
Co-chaired by Ambassador Souef Mohamed El-Amine, the Head of ATMIS, Anita Kiki Gbeho, Deputy Special Representative for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), and Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, Assistant Secretary General for the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), the JWG has been in operation since February 15, 2014.
The meeting concentrated particularly on strategies for the protection of civilians during Phase 2 of the ATMIS drawdown. Ambassador Souef highlighted the success of various ATMIS initiatives, such as training, directives, and engagement protocols, in enhancing compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and human rights obligations. He urged exploration of innovative approaches to strengthen these commitments and ensure the effective implementation of HRDDP.
UN Deputy Special Representative for UNSOM, Kiki Gbeho, underscored the necessity for regular high-level meetings to address emerging challenges and opportunities in ATMIS’ transition. This is especially critical given the intensified operations against Al-Shabaab and the upcoming security conference. Gbeho emphasized concrete actions in civilian protection and community engagement in regions affected by ATMIS’ restructuring.
Aisa Kirabo, Assistant Secretary General for UNSOS, commended the collaboration between the UN and ATMIS, emphasizing the pursuit of shared objectives and prioritization of the needs of the Somali people. She stressed the critical importance of human rights adherence and robust implementation of mitigation measures, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming Somalia Security Conference in New York.
Kirabo also applauded the efforts of ATMIS and UNSOS monitoring teams in upholding international human rights and humanitarian laws, highlighting the crucial elements of timeliness and transparency.
