Somalia Political Orientation
Government
Government Type: Federal Parliamentary Republic
Leader: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
Political Party: Union for Peace and Development Party
Political Position: Center-right (advocates for federalism, Islamic governance, moderate capitalism, and stability-focused reforms)
Press Freedom
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: 24.00 – Total Oppression
World Press Freedom Rank: Somalia 136/180
Somalia remains one of the most dangerous countries for journalists. According to Reporters Without Borders, journalists face death threats, arbitrary detention, and attacks from both government forces and non-state actors, particularly Al-Shabaab. In areas outside Mogadishu and Puntland, media freedom is almost nonexistent. Despite the adoption of a new media law in 2020, vague language on “false news” and national security has allowed authorities to suppress critical reporting. Self-censorship is widespread due to threats from militias, police, and political authorities.
Media Ownership and Government Analysis
Somalia’s media is fragmented and regionally controlled. In Mogadishu and some federal states, private radio and television stations like Radio Shabelle, Goobjoog, and Universal TV operate with limited editorial freedom. However, many outlets are affiliated with clan interests or political figures, which can affect their impartiality. State-run media, including Radio Mogadishu, primarily broadcasts government positions and faces little public trust.
Journalists in southern and central Somalia face the highest risk. Al-Shabaab systematically targets and kills journalists who defy its ideological messaging, while government security forces have also detained reporters arbitrarily. In 2023, journalist Abdalle Ahmed Mumin was detained multiple times for criticizing repressive media regulations.
Somalia’s media law lacks protections for press independence and contains provisions criminalizing defamation and “offending state institutions.” The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) and other groups have called for reforms, but the political environment remains too unstable for consistent enforcement. Internet access is expanding, but digital journalists face similar threats as traditional media professionals.
Overall, Somalia’s press operates in a highly dangerous and repressive environment shaped by insecurity, government hostility, and violent extremism. While some independent outlets persist, journalists face serious risks from all sides. The country’s legal framework and enforcement structures offer little protection, placing Somalia among the most oppressive nations for press freedom.
Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check