“Violence against women is a manifestation of inequality and discrimination which cannot be addressed in isolation of the historical and current context.” Independent UN human rights expert Rashida Manjoo, Special Rapporteur on violence against women, called for greater efforts to improve the plight of women in Somalia, “While I support the Government’s tentative efforts to address the issues of violence against women, I note that there still are many challenges for the full and effective participation of women in the political process.” Read –“Rape of Somali Women & Girls Fleeing Famine” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/blog_post/rape-of-somali-women-girls-fleeing-famine-by-ambassador-mo/33765 Lack of Accountability: Ms. Manjoo noted the lack of substantive reporting of violence against women and girls, and the absence of proper statistics and data, by the authorities, international agencies and civil society. “The absence of accountability mechanisms and specialized services for women and girl victims of various forms of violence, also contributes to such invisibility and silencing.” See Film Report: - “Sex Violence Council of Europe” - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/movie/sex-violence-council-of-europe/29108 Traditional Measures Inadequate/Misused: Somalia also suffers from domestic violence. The problem is exacerbated by the internal conflict, the displacement of populations and non-functioning State authorities. “In the absence of accountability mechanisms, impunity for acts of violence against women and girls is the norm. Furthermore, the use of traditional dispute forums to resolve issues of violence against women results in little or no justice for such. Read - “Sanctions for Violators of Children in Somalia” – diplomaticallyincorrect.org/films/blog_post/sanctions-for-violators-of-children-in-somalia/32999 Ms. Manjoo will deliver her complete Report on Somalia will be submitted to the Council next June. By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey Facebook – Become a Fan at “Bosnia TV” and/or “Diplomatically Incorrect” Twitter - Follow us at DiplomaticallyX “WarCrimesJustice” Channel - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/c/war-crimes-justice