Dr. Maryan Qaasim was today elected Chair of Somalia’s Independent National Human Rights Commission, following an election held in the capital Mogadishu.
Dr. Maryan, a doctor and politician experienced in public service and government administration, earned her Medicine & Surgery degree from Somali National University in 1983, and a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Warwick in the UK.Her specialization is in Maternal and Child Health (Obstetrics & Gynaecology).
She has previously held key government positions, including:Minister of Women’s Development & Family Affairs 2010–2011Minister of Human Development & Public Services 2012–2014, overseeing health, education, and social servicesMinister of Humanitarianism & Disaster Management 2017.
Her election comes amid challenges facing the country on human rights issues, with officials and civil society praising her extensive experience and leadership skills.
In a brief speech after the election, Dr. Maryan pledged to prioritize human rights protection, the commission’s independence, and defending the rights of women, children, and vulnerable groups.
