The Federal Government of Somalia has officially approved the country’s first-ever National Labour Migration Policy to safeguard the rights and welfare of the migrant workforce.

According to a statement released on Friday, July 4, 2025, by Somalia’s Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MOLSA), the policy aims to ensure orderly, safer, and regular labour migration of its workforce.

Furthermore, the policy reinforces Somalia’s commitment to protecting Somali workers abroad in line with international labour standards.

“Following a thorough and inclusive consultation process led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MOLSA), in collaboration with social partners and key stakeholders, the Somali Cabinet has officially approved the National Labour Migration Policy.

“This policy reinforces the protection of migrant workers’ rights and aligns with international labour standards,” reads the statement in part.

The development of the policy was made possible with technical and financial support from the International Labour Organisation (ILO), through the Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Project.

For a country grappling with conflict, poverty, and instability, the adoption signifies hope for thousands of Somalis seeking employment abroad.

The Somali Labour Code 

This comes a few months after Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, officially signed the Somali Labour Code. The code was proposed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and previously approved by both houses of the Somali Parliament.

Speaking during the signing on February 4, 2025, the president stated that the legislation is crucial for ensuring workers’ rights and creating a fair working environment based on the principles of equality and freedom for employees. 

The code emphasises the importance of Somali workers receiving their rightful entitlements in the workplace while balancing public interest and the country’s economic development.

Additionally, the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Yusuf Mohamed Adan, expressed gratitude to the President for signing this significant legislation, marking the first major update in 52 years.

The new labour code aligns with the nation-building process, supports free enterprise, and aims to uphold workers’ rights in accordance with both Islamic principles and international labour standards.