The Federal Government of Somalia and the Somaliland administration have established legal frameworks that uphold the right to effective administrative and judicial remedies for individuals lawfully residing in their territories—including refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced persons (FDPs)—who face restrictions on their freedom of movement. These legal protections are designed to ensure that any limitations imposed due to security concerns, administrative barriers, or discriminatory practices can be challenged through fair, transparent, and accessible legal channels.

In South and Central Somalia, the National Commission for Refugees and IDPs (NCRI) plays an active role in promoting the legal rights of refugees and returnees. The Provisional Constitution (2012), along with other national laws, affirms the right to freedom of movement and provides avenues for individuals to seek judicial and administrative recourse when these rights are infringed. NCRI advocates for the application of these protections and works in coordination with government institutions and humanitarian actors to support displaced persons in accessing justice.

In Somaliland, both the Constitution of Somaliland (2001) and the Refugees and Asylum Seekers Act (2023) guarantee legal protections for individuals whose rights—including freedom of movement—have been violated. The legal framework establishes the right to challenge unjust restrictions through formal legal processes. In support of these mechanisms, UNHCR, in collaboration with local legal aid providers and the University of Hargeisa, offers free legal assistance and representation to refugees and asylum seekers, helping to ensure that justice is accessible and that rights are meaningfully upheld.

In Puntland, legal aid services are facilitated through UNHCR’s implementing partner, Kullow, which provides legal counseling, representation, and support to refugees and asylum seekers facing restrictions on their movement. These services are particularly critical in contexts where security operations or local administrative practices may unintentionally infringe on the rights of displaced individuals.

Across all regions, the existence of legal remedies represents a critical safeguard for FDPs and underscores a broader commitment to the rule of law, due process, and non-discrimination. While practical challenges remain—such as resource constraints, limited legal awareness, and varying institutional capacities—ongoing efforts to strengthen legal aid networks and judicial responsiveness are helping to ensure that freedom of movement is not only legally protected but also practically enforceable for all displaced populations.