Baahi-koob: A Refuge for Somaliland’s Victims of Violence
In Somaliland, cultural and societal stigmas have long posed significant barriers to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in accessing justice and healing services. In 2008, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) supported the establishment of the first Sexual Assault Referral Center, locally known as the Baahi-koob Center, at Hargeisa Group Hospital. The success of this model led to its expansion to other regions in Somaliland in Burao and Borama, where similar centers were established under regional hospitals jurisdiction. These efforts supported through various phases of the Rule of Law Program. Under the current EU funded UN Joint Rule of Law Program, Baahi-koob Centers remain strategic partners, playing a critical role in addressing SGBV and supporting survivors across Somaliland. Continue reading “Baahi-koob: A Refuge for Somaliland’s Victims of Violence”