The promotion of equal rights and opportunities for women across all sectors of society, including security, ensures that their voices and perspectives inform policies and actions.
In order to enable women who wish to serve their country, EUCAP Somalia Head of Mission (HoM), Ms. Maria-Cristina Stepanescu met with the Minister of Women and Human Rights Development, Ms. Deqa Yasin confirming the desire on both sides to enhance their cooperation.
“Security is our priority. Security goes hand in hand with respect to human rights”, said H.E. Minister Yasin on April 3rd 2018.
Gender equality is at the very heart of human rights and women’s participation in the law enforcement sector is still low in Somalia. A balanced representation of women and men can increase the confidence and trust in law enforcement agencies among the local population.
The need for greater investment in Somali women – in ensuring respect for their rights, in their educational and professional opportunities, and of course, in their role within law enforcement agencies and the judiciary at all levels, was a central topic of the meeting.
H.E. Minister Yasin and EUCAP HoM agreed to maintain an open line of communication and meet regularly. Starting now, EUCAP Somalia will actively participate in the ‘Pillar 9 Working Group’ on Gender and Human Rights chaired by Minister Yasin.
