Date of publication:
08/21/2025
Somalia
Do domestic laws and policies require that the grounds for refusing an application for family reunification be specified?
Assessment by population
Analysis
The Federal Government of Somalia and the Somaliland administration are progressively developing domestic laws and policies related to family reunification, with an overarching goal of supporting the restoration of family unity for affected populations, including forcibly displaced persons (FDPs) such as internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and returnees. These evolving frameworks reflect a growing commitment to align national practices with international protection standards and humanitarian principles.
While the legal and administrative systems are supportive of reunification in principle, current procedures do not yet require authorities to provide formal, detailed explanations when a family reunification application is not approved. The absence of a statutory obligation to issue written justifications leaves room for discretion in administrative practice. Nevertheless, applicants are encouraged to engage with legal aid providers, humanitarian agencies, or relevant government offices to seek clarification, advice, and procedural guidance during the reunification process. These actors play a vital role in supporting individuals through case preparation, application submission, and follow-up, helping to ensure that the process remains transparent, fair, and accessible as policy frameworks continue to mature.
Related provisions of domestic law or policy
Puntland Refugee Protection Law
- Year: 2016
- Type: Domestic law
- Rights Category: Asylum, Education, Freedom of movement, Health, Housing, land & property, Liberty & security of person, Nationality & facilitated naturalization, Social protection, Work & Workplace rights, Family life, Documentation
Legal provision
Article 10.2 - Disqualification from grant of refugee status
Where the Eligibility Committee rejects an application for recognition of refugee status, it shall so notify the applicant in writing and shall inform him/her of grounds for rejection.
Somaliland Refugee Protection Law
- Year: 2023
- Type: Domestic law
- Rights Category: Asylum, Education, Freedom of movement, Health, Housing, land & property, Liberty & security of person, Nationality & facilitated naturalization, Social protection, Work & Workplace rights, Family life, Documentation
Legal provision
Article 26.2 - Family Reunification
Upon receipt of the application made under paragraph (1) of this article, the family relationship between the refugee and the person or persons to whom he requested for permission will be investigated.