Call for Applications: Commissioner Positions at the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) 

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF SOMALIA

TEMPORARY SELECTION PANEL (TSP)

PUBLIC NOTICE

Call for Applications:

Commissioner Positions at the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC)

Reference: TSP/NIHRC/PN/CFA/2025/001

Version: 1.0 – April 2025

Submission Deadline: 25 May 2025, 11:59 PM (Mogadishu time)

Submission Email: tsp.secretariat@mfhrd.gov.so

Confidentiality Statement

The Temporary Selection Panel (TSP) is committed to safeguarding your personal and sensitive information. All data provided in this call for application will be handled in strict confidence and used solely for eligibility assessment, inclusion monitoring, and compliance with legal requirements. Only members of the TSP—all bound by formal confidentiality obligations—will have access to this information.

In line with national accountability frameworks, relevant information may also be reviewed by independent oversight bodies or partners legally authorized to assess the fairness of the process. No data will be disclosed publicly or externally beyond this framework without lawful basis or your explicit consent.

All records will be securely stored and retained by MoFHRD in accordance with national data protection policies and international standards. For any questions regarding how your information is managed, please contact the TSP Secretariat at: tp.secretariat.gov.so

1. Introduction

In accordance with Article 7 of Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016 on the establishment of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) of Somalia, the Temporary Selection Panel, duly mandated the selection process, hereby issues this Public Notice: Call for Applications for qualified candidates to serve as Commissioners of the NIHRC. This notice is being disseminated through multiple media platforms and official government websites as part of the required open and transparent competitive process, which shall remain open for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of publication.

The NIHRC is an autonomous national body with the constitutional and statutory mandate to promote, protect, and ensure respect for human rights across the Federal Republic of Somalia. Established under Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016, the Commission operates as an independent entity and serves as a key institutional mechanism to advance the realization of fundamental rights and freedoms, in line with Somalia’s obligations under national laws and international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, core UN human rights treaties, and the Paris Principles Relating to the Status of National Human Rights Institutions.

This Call for Applications aims to identify and appoint competent, independent, and ethically grounded Somali nationals who are deeply committed to the principles of integrity, non-discrimination, accountability, and impartiality. Commissioners will play a vital leadership role in fulfilling the Commission’s mandate to investigate human rights violations, advise public authorities, promote human rights education, and engage with national and international mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights.

The selection process will be conducted according to the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunity for all eligible Somali citizens, with particular encouragement extended to women, persons with disabilities, and members of minority and marginalised communities to apply.

Through this public call, the Temporary Selection Panel reaffirms the Federal Government of Somalia’s commitment to upholding human dignity, equality, and justice and to ensuring that the NIHRC is staffed by visionary leaders who possess the requisite expertise, independence, and dedication to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of human rights for all in Somalia.

The establishment of such a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) constitutes a key pillar of the Somalia Human Rights Transition Plan (2025–2026), which aims to shift from externally driven mechanisms toward nationally owned institutions that promote accountability, equality, and the rule of law. The NIHRC will serve as Somalia’s principal body for the promotion and protection of human rights, reflecting both the country’s constitutional commitments and its international obligations.

2. About the NIHRC

The National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) of the Federal Republic of Somalia is a constitutionally established and statutorily mandated national institution, created under the authority of Articles 41 and 111B of the Provisional Federal Constitution and further operationalized through Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016. The NIHRC serves as an autonomous and independent national human rights body with full legal personality, authorized to engage in contracts, acquire and dispose of property, and operate in any region of Somalia, with its headquarters located in Mogadishu.

• Mandate and Functions

The NIHRC holds the core responsibility for the promotion, protection, monitoring, and advancement of human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout the territory of Somalia. The Commission operates in strict accordance with the Federal Constitution, Islamic Sharia, national legislation, and Somalia’s international and regional human rights obligations. Its work is guided by the principles of independence, integrity, non-discrimination, transparency, and accountability, and is firmly anchored in the Paris Principles.

The mandate and functions of the Commission shall include the following:

• Promoting and enhancing a culture based on the knowledge and respect of human rights values in accordance with Islamic Sharia, the Provisional Federal Constitution, and the international human rights instruments to which Somalia is a party.
• Ensuring that all government systems, including political structures and legislation, are consistent with the human rights principles enshrined in the Federal Constitution and the values of international treaties and laws ratified by Somalia.
• Conducting visits to detention centres where convicted prisoners are held, including facilities where pre-trial detainees are kept, and any other locations where there are credible suspicions of unlawful detention. The purpose of these visits is to assess the conditions and provide appropriate recommendations for improving the situation of detainees.
• Receiving complaints related to human rights violations and conducting investigations into such violations, whether committed by government institutions (including agencies under the executive branch) or private actors, and subsequently issuing appropriate remedies and recommendations to address the confirmed violations.
• Investigating human rights violations committed against vulnerable groups, including women, persons with disabilities, the elderly, children, and particularly those forcibly recruited or associated with armed groups.
• Carrying out general investigations and monitoring systematic or widespread human rights violations.
• Preparing and submitting reports to the Parliament, regional and international human rights bodies, and other relevant institutions on human rights issues, including constitutional recommendations where applicable.
• Promoting and encouraging both government institutions and private entities to respect, uphold, and implement the fundamental principles of human rights.

• Collaborating and engaging with organizations involved in the protection and defence of human rights.
• Undertaking any other necessary tasks deemed essential by the Commission for the promotion and protection of human rights, in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
• Executing any additional responsibilities assigned by the Federal Constitution or national laws, and taking appropriate measures to advance the promotion, protection, and implementation of human rights principles and values.
  • Powers of the Commission

The NIHRC, as defined under Article 6 of the Law, is empowered to:

• To adopt its internal rules of procedure and the Code of Conduct governing the ethical performance of its members.
• To summon any individual or entity whom the Commission considers necessary to assist in the execution of its mandate and functions.
• To hear and resolve complaints and human rights-related issues through appropriate mechanisms, including mediation, conciliation, and negotiation.
• To lawfully request and access any information deemed necessary for the fulfilment of its mandate, including reports, written statements, documents, or any other relevant materials from individuals, institutions, or government offices. Where access to such information is restricted, the Commission may seek a court order to authorize entry into any premises, property, or location for the purpose of obtaining evidence or conducting investigations, and may make copies of documents while ensuring data protection and the integrity of the property concerned.
• To consult or collaborate with any person or institution possessing professional expertise relevant to the effective discharge of the Commission’s functions.
• To interview individuals or groups who possess relevant knowledge on matters under the consideration of the Commission.
• To conduct investigations into government institutions or privately owned entities to assess their level of compliance with the constitutional principles of inclusivity, equity, justice, and non-discrimination in access to services and opportunities.
• To request reports from government agencies or private institutions regarding their implementation of gender equality and non-discrimination principles, including how these principles are reflected in their operations and service delivery.
• Summon individuals or entities to provide information relevant to its investigations.
• Request reports and documents from government institutions and private entities.
• Conduct on-site inspections and investigations, including lawful access to necessary premises and documentation.
• Seek expert advice and cooperate with national and international partners to fulfil its mandate effectively.

• Institutional Composition

As outlined in Article 7 of the Law, the NIHRC is composed of nine (9) Commissioners, selected through an open and competitive process. The composition of the Commission reflects the commitment to gender equality, inclusion of persons with disabilities, and representativeness, with a minimum requirement of three (3) women Commissioners and at least one (1) Commissioner from persons with disabilities.

The leadership structure of the NIHRC consists of the following positions, elected internally by the Commissioners at their first meeting:

• Chairperson: Leads the Commission, convenes and presides over meetings, guides and oversees strategic work plans and operations, maintains effective relationships with government and international stakeholders, chairs adjudicative committees on human rights complaints (where established), acts as the official spokesperson, and performs any other duties assigned by law or internal regulations.
• Deputy Chairperson: Supports the Chairperson, assumes all Chairperson duties in their absence or incapacity, and carries out tasks delegated by the Chairperson.
• Secretary: Manages and safeguards the Commission’s records and documentation, prepares and disseminates meeting invitations and official correspondence under the Chairperson’s guidance, and communicates decisions of the Commission to relevant stakeholders.

In accordance with the principle of gender parity, as provided under Article 7 (3) of Law No. 16, if the elected Chairperson is male, the Deputy Chairperson shall be female, and vice versa.

Through this inclusive and well-defined institutional setup, the NIHRC plays a vital role in Somalia’s governance framework as a guardian of human rights, upholding the rule of law, fostering social justice, and promoting the dignity, rights, and freedoms, of all individuals.

3. Available Positions and Term of Office
   • Positions

The Temporary Selection Panel (TSP), pursuant to the mandate conferred by Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016 on the establishment of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), hereby invites applications from qualified Somali nationals for the nine (9) Commissioner positions at the NIHRC.

Commissioners will be selected through an open, transparent, and competitive process designed to ensure that the leadership of the Commission reflects the principles of independence, integrity, competence, and inclusivity, as set out in the founding law.

• Term of Office

According to Article 7(4) of the Law, Commissioners will be appointed for a four-year (4) term, with the possibility of one-time renewal. This tenure provision is intended to safeguard the independence and continuity of the Commission’s work while preventing undue politicization.

4. Eligibility Criteria

In accordance with Article 8 of Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016 on the establishment of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), the Temporary Selection Panel invites applications from individuals who meet the following eligibility requirements.

The criteria are designed to ensure that Commissioners possess the necessary qualifications, integrity, and competence to perform their duties independently and effectively in line with human rights principles and Somalia’s legal framework.

• General Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for appointment as a Commissioner of the NIHRC, an applicant must meet the following conditions:

• Be a Somali citizen and at least 35 years of age.
• Hold a postgraduate degree (Master’s level or higher) from a recognized university in one of the following fields:
  • Sharia and Islamic Jurisprudence,
  • Public Administration and Management,
  • Economics and Finance,
  • Diplomacy and International Relations,
  • Gender Studies and Social Development,
  • Human Rights or related fields,
  • Or any other relevant academic qualifications combined with proven professional experience in these areas.
• Must have at least 10 years of demonstrated experience and leadership in human rights, governance, justice sector reform, peacebuilding, social development, or other related fields of public service.
• Must fulfil the basic standards of professional integrity, good character, and be free from corruption, in accordance with the applicable national laws.

• Disqualification Criteria

In accordance with Article 8(2) of Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016, and consistent with the requirements of the Paris Principles and the GANHRI General Observations on safeguarding the independence and integrity of national human rights institutions, the following individuals shall be ineligible for appointment as commissioners of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC)

• Non-Somali citizens.
• Individuals currently serving as:
  • Members of the military, police, or intelligence services in any level,
  • Members of the Federal Parliament, Federal Member State Assemblies, or Local Councils of Somalia,
  • Members of any branch of the Federal Government, Federal Member States, regional administrations, or district-level local governments who hold political, administrative, or technical positions with significant decision-making authority — including roles involving institutional leadership, budgetary control, policy leadership, or program oversight.
• Persons who have been removed from public office for serious misconduct or ethical breaches.
• Persons formally found to have violated the Constitution or currently under criminal investigation or prosecution for offenses punishable under Somali law.
• Individuals who fail to meet the standards of professional integrity, including those found guilty of corruption or serious abuse of office.
  • Commitment to Ethical Standards

All applicants must demonstrate:

• A strong personal and professional commitment to human rights principles, including respect for human dignity, equality, non-discrimination, and the rule of law.
• Experience working with or advocating for vulnerable groups in Somalia.
• The ability to maintain impartiality and independence from political influence, government interference, or private interest groups.
• A clear understanding of Somalia’s human rights obligations under domestic, regional, and international legal instruments, along with familiarity with the country’s legal and constitutional frameworks and local contexts.
• A willingness to uphold the independence, autonomy, and credibility of the NIHRC in accordance with its founding law.

• Strong analytical and communication skills, and ability to make fair, evidence-based decisions;
• Ability to work collaboratively in a pluralistic and high-pressure institutional setting.
• Fluency (spoken and written) in Somali is required, along with fluency in Arabic and/or English.

• Encouragement of Inclusive Participation

In line with the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and inclusivity, the Temporary Selection Panel strongly encourages applications from:

• Women candidates.
• Persons with disabilities.
• Members of minority and marginalised communities.

These affirmative considerations are intended to promote the full realization of the representation and diversity commitments embedded in Article 11(4) of the PFC and Article 7 of Law No. 16, and to ensure that the NIHRC reflects the pluralism of Somali society.

5. Application Process

The Temporary Selection Panel hereby invites eligible Somali nationals who meet the prescribed criteria to submit their applications for consideration for the position of Commissioner at the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC). The selection process will be conducted through an open, fair, transparent, and merit-based competitive procedure, as required under Article 16 of Law No. 16.

• Required Application Documents

Interested applicants are required to submit the following documents in support of their candidacy:

• Completed Application Form

All applicants must complete the official Application Form, which is annexed to this Public Notice. If you are a person with a disability and require assistance to complete or submit your application, or if you require alternative formats (such as audio instructions, large print, or guided submission), please contact the TSP Secretariat as early as possible to arrange reasonable accommodation.

• Annexes to Application Form

Attach all required supporting documents as listed in Section G of the Application Form. Applications submitted without the required annexes may be considered incomplete and subject to disqualification. If you require assistance with document preparation due to disability-related barriers, please notify the Secretariat as early as possible.

• Method of Submission

Completed application form and annexes must be submitted to:

tsp.secretariat@mfhrd.gov.so

Note: Clearly indicate “Application Form for Commissioner Positions at NIHRC” in the subject line of the email. Applicants are encouraged to retain proof of submission.

• Deadline for Submission

The deadline for submission of applications is 25 May 2025 at 11:59 PM Mogadishu time.

Late submissions or incomplete application packages will not be considered.

If you are a person with a disability and require assistance to complete or submit your application, or if you require alternative formats (such as audio instructions, large print, or guided submission), please contact the TSP Secretariat as early as possible at:

tsp.secretariat@mfhrd.gov.so

Reasonable accommodations will be provided to ensure equal access and participation for all applicants.

• Important Considerations

• All applications will be handled with the strictest confidentiality.
• Submission of an application does not guarantee selection or shortlisting.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the recruitment process.

6. Selection Process

The selection and appointment of Commissioners to the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) shall be conducted through an open, transparent, and competitive process, fully compliant with the provisions of Law No. 16 of 27 June 2016 and guided by the principles of merit, integrity, independence, and inclusivity.

The recruitment process is designed to ensure that only the most qualified, experienced, and ethically sound individuals are appointed to serve as Commissioners of the NIHRC, thereby safeguarding the Commission’s credibility, effectiveness, and adherence to its independent mandate.

• Screening and Shortlisting of Applications

• Upon closure of the application period, the Temporary Selection Panel will conduct an initial review of all submitted applications to verify eligibility, completeness, and compliance with the requirements outlined in this call for applications.
• Only applications that meet the eligibility criteria, as defined under this call for applications, and that are complete with all required supporting documents, will proceed to the next stage of the selection process.
• A shortlist of candidates will be compiled based on qualifications, experience, demonstrated commitment to human rights, and alignment with the NIHRC’s mandate and values.

• Written Assessment

All eligible candidates will undergo a standardized written assessment designed and validated by independent experts. The purpose of the assessment is to ensure an objective evaluation of core competencies required for the role of NIHRC Commissioner.

The written assessment will evaluate the following areas:

• Knowledge of Somali constitutional, legal, and institutional frameworks, including Somalia’s international human rights obligations and treaties;
• Understanding of key international and regional human rights instruments, norms, and mechanisms;
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to assess complex human rights scenarios;
• Ethical reasoning, independence, and conflict sensitivity, particularly regarding the rights and protection of vulnerable and marginalized groups;
• Institutional understanding and commitment to the NIHRC’s mandate, role, and powers as established by Law No. 16 of 2016.

To uphold fairness and impartiality:

• All assessments will be anonymized and independently scored by at least three qualified evaluators, with final scores determined through averaging.

• The process will fully accommodate persons with disabilities, including the provision of assistive technologies, scribes, extra time, or other reasonable adjustments based on individual needs.

This stage ensures that all candidates are evaluated on the basis of merit, competence, and demonstrated knowledge, in line with the NIHRC’s commitment to transparent and equitable selection.

• Interview Process

Shortlisted candidates who successfully complete the written assessment will be invited to participate in structured interviews conducted by the Temporary Selection Panel (TSP).

The interviews will follow a standardized format to promote consistency, fairness, and objective evaluation. The assessment during the interview will focus on the following key areas:

• Knowledge of national, regional, and international human rights frameworks and mechanisms relevant to Somalia;

• Understanding of the NIHRC’s statutory mandate, functions, and powers as outlined in Law No. 16 of 2016, and the broader role of NHRIs under the Paris Principles;
• Demonstrated commitment to core human rights values, including independence, impartiality, non-discrimination, gender equality, and respect for the rights of marginalized groups;
• Practical experience in human rights promotion, monitoring, investigation, reporting, and policy engagement;
• Leadership capacity, ethical integrity, conflict sensitivity, and collegial decision-making skills, especially the ability to contribute constructively within a multi-member governance body.

Throughout the interview process, the Panel will adhere to the principles of transparency, accountability, and equal opportunity, ensuring that all candidates are assessed objectively and without bias.

• Due Diligence and Verification

• The Temporary Selection Panel reserves the right to conduct background checks and verification of credentials of all shortlisted candidates, including but not limited to:
  • Academic and professional qualifications;
  • Past employment history;
  • Criminal record status;
  • Integrity, conflict of interest, and ethical conduct assessments.
• The Panel may also consult relevant government agencies, professional bodies, civil society organizations, and human rights actors for additional insights into the suitability of candidates.
  • Final Recommendation

• Following the completion of the interviews and due diligence processes, the Temporary Selection Panel will make final recommendations of suitable candidates for appointment as NIHRC Commissioners.
• The recommendations will prioritize:
  • Compliance with the legally required composition of the Commission (at least three women and one person with disability);
  • Social diversity to ensure representativeness and inclusivity;
  • Highest ethical standards and demonstrated independence from political or private interest groups.

• Notification of Results

• All candidates will be formally notified of the outcome of their application at each stage of the selection process — including application screening, written assessment, and interview.
• Candidates who are not successful at any stage will receive timely communication informing them of their status, in line with the principles of transparency, fairness, and respect for human dignity.
• The final outcomes for candidates recommended for appointment will be communicated officially and individually. The confidentiality of all applicants will be respected throughout the process.

7. Commitment to Inclusion, Integrity, and Public Service

The Temporary Selection Panel is committed to:

• Upholding the principles of inclusion and equality under Article 11(4) of the Provisional Constitution and Law No. 16;
• Ensuring the meaningful participation of women, persons with disabilities, and members of minority and marginalized communities;
• Selecting individuals with the highest standards of public service, independence, and moral integrity;
• Strengthening public trust and democratic governance through a credible, rights-based selection process;

Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from minority and marginalized communities with a proven commitment to human rights and social justice are strongly encouraged to apply.

8. Additional Information / Contact Details

For any inquiries, clarifications, or further information regarding this Call for Applications for the position of Commissioner at the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC), interested applicants and members of the public are encouraged to contact the Temporary Selection Panel through the designated communication channels provided below.

The Panel is fully committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and accessibility throughout the application and selection process. All queries will be handled with professionalism and in strict accordance with the principles of fairness and confidentiality.

8.1. Contact Information

• Address:

Temporary Selection Panel
Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development (MoFHRD)
Mogadishu, Federal Republic of Somalia

Email Address: tsp.secretariat@mfhrd.gov.so

Telephone (Office Hours Only):

Official Website for Updates: www.mfhrd.gov.so

8.2. Working Hours for Inquiries

• Sunday to Thursday:
  8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Somalia Local Time)
• Fridays and Public Holidays:

The TSP encourages applicants to review this Public Notice carefully before submitting inquiries to avoid delays. Responses will be provided promptly and within a reasonable timeframe during working hours.

9. Disclaimer

The TSP wishes to emphasize that participation in this application process does not, under any circumstances, guarantee selection, shortlisting, or appointment as a Commissioner of the National Independent Human Rights Commission (NIHRC).

The Panel is fully committed to conducting the recruitment process with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability, in strict accordance with Law No. 16 and Somalia’s constitutional and legal framework. The Panel reserves the right to:

• Verify all information and documents submitted by applicants, including academic qualifications, work experience, references, and integrity credentials.

• Reject any application that is incomplete, falsified, or does not meet the eligibility criteria as specified in this Public Notice.

• Cancel or withdraw the recruitment process, or any part thereof, at any stage without prior notice if deemed necessary in the public interest, and without incurring any liability to the applicants or third parties.

No individual or entity is authorized to solicit or guarantee appointment in this process. Any attempt to influence the outcome of the selection process through improper means, favouritism, corruption, or political interference will lead to immediate disqualification and may result in legal action in accordance with applicable laws of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The Temporary Selection Panel maintains full discretion over the interpretation and application of the provisions contained in this Public Notice. Any disputes arising from the recruitment process will be addressed in accordance with the laws of Somalia.

Attachment:

Application Form for NIHRC Commissioner Candidates

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