The Federal Government of Somalia and the Somaliland administration generally define “family” within the context of family reunification policies to include members of the nuclear family—specifically, spouses and their unmarried minor children. This definition is consistent with international protection standards and forms the basis for most legal and administrative procedures related to reunification for forcibly displaced persons (FDPs), including internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and returnees. By focusing on the nuclear family unit, domestic frameworks aim to ensure that the most immediate and dependent family relationships are prioritized in reunification processes.

Although formal policies predominantly emphasize the nuclear family, there is cultural and community recognition of broader kinship ties, which may influence administrative discretion or humanitarian practice in certain cases. In specific contexts—such as when a child is being cared for by an extended family member, or where an elderly relative is dependent—consideration may be given to extended family members, even if they are not explicitly covered in statutory definitions. This culturally informed flexibility reflects Somali societal values, which traditionally place strong importance on clan and family networks, while remaining aligned with broader legal standards guiding protection and reunification efforts.