United Nations Radio

The UN's independent expert on human rights in Somalia reports that the situation in the country continues to be the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today.

Somalis

Shamsul Bari says since his last visit in March 2008 life for ordinary citizens living in or near the conflict zone has become even worse. More people have been killed and many more displaced due to the violence. Despite the spike in violence Mr. Bari remains hopeful for a number of reasons.

"The implementation of the Djibouti peace agreement has kindled new hopes in the mind of people who have suffered senseless violence for too long. The departure of the Ethiopian troops early this year has removed much of the earlier anger of the people against the Transitional Federal Government. The adoption by the new Government of Sharia law to be the basis of governance in Somalia has taken the wind off the sails of the hard-line Islamist opposition."

Additionally, the independent expert says traditional clan rivalry has also been on the decrease. He urged the international community to take advantage of the changing climate in the country to end the crisis.

Gail Walker, United Nations Radio
(duration: 1'08")