May 2021

Sexual violence is widespread in Somalia. Two decades of conflict and the collapse of the basic functions of government have brought about a system where women and girls, many displaced and living in IDP camps, are inherently vulnerable to rape and other forms of sexual violence. The systematic use of sexual violence and rape has been a common feature of conflict perpetrated by all actors involved. Abortion is permitted in Somalia only to save the life of the mother basing on the 2012 Provisional Constitution of Somalia, the Somalia Penal Code (Legislative Decree No. 5 of 16 December 1962) and the Somalia Essential Drug List, 2003. In practice, this can be interpreted loosely or strictly, according to level of privilege enjoyed within Somali society. Clan affiliation, family wealth, and links with religious institutions as well as structural factors like rural/urban, pastoral/home-based and level of poverty can dictate the extent to which this rule is enforced. The more vulnerable you are, the higher possibility that you will not be able to access safe abortion services. Sexual violence survivors are extremely vulnerable, and require immediate support in the aftermath of assault. In a country where emergency contraception is non-existent, abortion services are absolutely critical.