Date of publication:

04/09/2025

Somalia

Do domestic laws and policies prohibit the employment of children under specified ages?

ANALYSIS

Assessment by population

Assessment by population
Refugees
Asylum-seekers
Analysis

In both the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Somaliland, domestic laws establish legal frameworks regarding the minimum working age and the protection of children from exploitative labor. Somalia's pre-1991 labor code sets the minimum working age at 15 years, reflecting the country's commitment to aligning with international standards concerning child labor. This provision is intended to protect children from engaging in work that may hinder their education, health, and overall development. Similarly, in Somaliland, the legal framework contains provisions that restrict child labor and set the minimum working age at 15 years. These laws aim to ensure that children are not subjected to harsh working conditions and are allowed to grow and develop in a safe environment. Both regions recognize the importance of protecting children’s rights, ensuring that they are given opportunities to attend school and engage in age-appropriate activities.

    LAW & POLICY

    Related provisions of domestic law or policy

    Labor Code of Somalia

    Legal provision

    Article 90 - Prohibited Work

    The term 'children' means persons of either sex who have not attained the age of 15 years and the term 'young persons' means those who have attained the age of 15 years but have not attained the age of 18 years.