Civil society organizations, community leaders, and policy advocates gathered under the banner of JUNSAA to discuss one of the most pressing needs in Jubaland’s development journey — a clear, protective legal and policy framework for civic space.
Civic space is the foundation upon which communities organize, speak, and participate in decisions that affect their lives. When it is legally protected, civil society thrives, governance improves, and peace becomes more sustainable.
The forum centered around three key priorities:
- Legislative protection — ensuring that laws recognize and safeguard the right of civil society organizations to operate freely and without unnecessary barriers
- Policy dialogue — creating structured channels through which non-state actors can contribute meaningfully to regional policymaking
- Accountability frameworks — establishing clear standards that promote transparency for both government institutions and civil society organizations alike
Participants emphasized that a strong civic space is not a challenge to authority — it is a partner to it. Governments that create room for civil society ultimately build stronger, more resilient communities.
JUNSAA calls on all relevant stakeholders — including legislative bodies, the Jubaland administration, and international partners — to prioritize the development of a framework that protects and enables civic participation at every level.
— JUNSAA | Jubbaland Non-State Actors Association
