Background
The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), together with Somaliland women journalists’ associations and human rights organizations, formally submitted the media community’s views and recommendations regarding the Somaliland Press Law to the Social Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives.

This engagement is part of ongoing efforts to protect, promote, and defend press freedom and to ensure that the Somaliland Press Law is aligned with:

• • • The Constitution of the Republic of Somaliland
    • International standards on freedom of expression
    • The real operational environment of media institutions in Somaliland

Objectives of the Meeting

To present the collective position of media stakeholders on the Somaliland Media Law
To advocate for legal reforms that safeguard press freedom while promoting responsible journalism
To contribute constructively to the legislative review process through practical and rights-based recommendations

Key Issues Raised by Media Organizations

1. Independence of the National Media Council

SOLJA and partner organizations emphasized the importance of establishing the National Media Council as a fully independent national institution.
The Council should function impartially between:

• • • The government
    • Media institutions
    • The public

This independence is considered essential for credibility, fairness, and effective media regulation.

2. Reduction of Excessive Fines and Penalties

The organizations expressed concern that heavy fines and long prison sentences could severely undermine media freedom.
They recommended:

Reducing disproportionate penalties
Strengthening ethical and professional accountability mechanisms instead of harsh punitive measures

3. Accountability and a Clear Complaints Mechanism

The media organizations proposed that decisions related to:

• • • Licensing
    • Rejection
    • Suspension
    • Revocation of media outlets

should be based on clear legal procedures.
They further stressed the need for an independent appeals mechanism, with the National Media Council serving as the appropriate body to handle complaints and disputes.

Additional Recommendations

SOLJA and women journalists’ organizations also presented proposed amendments and additions to several articles of the Press Law. These recommendations aim to ensure that the media in Somaliland:

• • • Operates in a free and enabling environment
    • Upholds professional responsibility
    • Protects the public interest

Conclusion
The Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), women journalists’ associations, and human rights organizations expressed hope that the Social Affairs Committee and the House of Representatives as a whole will carefully review and consider the views, concerns, and recommendations presented by the media community.

They emphasized that adopting these recommendations would contribute to the development of a balanced, fair, and progressive Press Law that reflects Somaliland’s democratic aspirations and commitment to freedom of expression.