Introduction and Context
Religious extremism and harsh interpretations of Sharia law have left many Somalis living in fear, with thousands forced to flee the country each year. Extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab enforce strict religious codes through violence and intimidation, while state institutions also apply discriminatory laws that target minorities and dissenting voices.

For Somalis who do not conform to these rigid expectations — including converts, minority faith groups, and secular voices — persecution is a daily reality. This climate of repression is a major driver of migration, as individuals and families seek safety abroad.


Extremist Violence
Al-Shabaab remains the most powerful enforcer of extremist ideology in Somalia. In areas under its control, civilians are subjected to brutal punishments, including flogging, amputations, and executions, for alleged violations of Sharia law.

The group uses religious justification to suppress freedoms of expression, movement, and belief. Women are particularly vulnerable, forced into restrictive dress codes and early marriages, with violators facing violence.

Extremist violence is not limited to local enforcement; it includes terror attacks in urban centres that target those seen as opposing their ideology.


State-Level Persecution
Religious persecution is not confined to extremist groups. Somalia’s penal code and state laws incorporate Sharia-inspired provisions that criminalise blasphemy, apostasy, and non-conforming religious practices.

Religious minorities, including Christians, are forced to worship in secret for fear of reprisals. Accusations of apostasy can lead to imprisonment or even death sentences.

This state-sanctioned repression compounds the dangers faced by those already targeted by extremists, leaving little room for freedom of conscience or belief.


Forced Migration
Unable to practise their faith freely, many Somalis have no choice but to flee. Neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda host large Somali refugee populations, including those escaping religious persecution.

However, life in refugee camps is often precarious, with continued discrimination and insecurity. For others, the journey extends to Europe or North America, where asylum systems provide some protection but present hurdles of documentation and proof.

The experience of forced migration highlights the severity of repression at home and the desperation of those forced to leave.


Reform, Protection, and Conclusion
Religious extremism and persecution in Somalia represent a grave violation of human rights. Protecting individuals from such abuses requires comprehensive reforms and international support.

Key steps include:
- Countering extremism: dismantling the control of armed groups such as Al-Shabaab.
- Legal reform: repealing discriminatory laws and ensuring protection of freedom of religion.
- Community protection: strengthening grassroots initiatives that promote tolerance and coexistence.
- International support: offering asylum pathways and assistance to those fleeing persecution.
- Accountability: prosecuting those responsible for religiously motivated violence.

Until Somalia guarantees freedom of belief and dismantles systems of religious oppression, Somalis will continue to be driven abroad by fear. Protecting these rights is essential not only for individuals but also for the long-term stability and peace of the nation.