Welcome to IRAD, where research, analysis, and dialogue converge to address pressing challenges and foster informed decision-making. Explore our programs, publications, and multimedia resources to learn more about our work and impact.
The Institute for Research Analysis and Dialogue (IRAD) is an independent, nonpartisan, non-profit, think tank and research organization based in Baidoa, Southwest, Somalia. IRAD is committed to conducting interdisciplinary research, policy analysis, and fostering inclusive dialogue with the aim of promoting citizen-centric participatory governance.
The fourth Telédhaang forum of the Institute for Research Analysis and Dialogue (IRAD) was convened in Baidoa to discuss “The Role of Women in Social Development in the Southwest State of Somalia.” The event brought together over 40 women from diverse backgrounds, representing various women-led civil society organizations and the State Ministry of Women, Family Affairs and Human Rights Development. The primary objective of the forum was to explore the critical role women play in social development and to identify strategies to enhance their contributions.
The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Zaima Abdullahi, IRAD Institute board director and experienced development practitioner. In her opening remarks, she highlighted the distinct challenges faced by women in the Southwest State of Somalia and emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and their indispensable role in achieving sustainable social development. She further underscored the institute’s commitment to fostering gender equality and women’s leadership.
Social Contract Think Session: Southwest State of Somalia Perspectives
The Institute for Research Analysis and Dialogue (IRAD), in partnership with Asal and Saferworld, is pleased to host a collaborative symposium titled “Southwest State Perspectives on the Social Contract” on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, in Baidoa.
This dynamic session brought together a wide range of participants, including regional parliamentarians, women, youth, persons with disabilities, traditional elders, religious leaders, marginalized communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), academics, media representatives, and officials from the Southwest State Ministries of Justice, Security, and Constitutional Affairs.
Discussions centered on uniquely Somali perspectives of social contracts and their relevance to contemporary debates on citizenship, political settlements, and state (re)building efforts. The social contract framework was explored as a critical lens for addressing challenges such as fostering inclusive development policies and ensuring equitable outcomes.
This symposium forms part of the “Somali Perspectives on the Social Contract Series,” a dedicated initiative designed to encourage subnational and federal dialogues. The series serves as a platform for sharing diverse viewpoints and crafting strategies grounded in local realities, contributing to a more inclusive and effective discourse on governance and development in Somalia.
The constitutional review process and justice system reform in Somalia are vital pillars of the country’s state-building and governance efforts. With the provisional constitution still under review, there is a pressing need to finalize it in a way that reflects the aspirations of all Somalis. Equally important is strengthening the justice system to ensure inclusive, transparent, and citizen-centric governance.
On June 11, 2024, the Institute for Research Analysis and Dialogue organized its fourth citizen forum, focusing on strengthening Somalia’s justice system and finalizing the provisional constitution. The event was attended by the Federal Government of Somalia’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, alongside justice ministries from the Federal Member States, members of the judiciary, parliamentarians, and representatives from civil society, including women, youth, traditional elders, religiuos leader, and academia.
Minister Hassan Moallin, the FGS Minister of Justice, delivered opening remarks highlighting the government’s efforts in completing the provisional constitution, which is undergoing amendments. He also provided updates on initiatives to strengthen the justice system, emphasizing the need to stregthen judicial independence, amend the constitution, and ensure it aligns with both legal standards and religious principles. The Minister acknowledged the Institute for facilitating this opportunity to engage directly with citizens and gather input on the justice system and the ongoing constitutional review process, which significantly contributes to strengthening the social contract and building public trust. Participants were given the opportunity to ask the Minister questions, which he addressed in detail, fostering a productive and engaging dialogue.
I wholeheartedly pledge my unwavering support for the IRAD Institute, including providing official office space, to ensure its stability and success. This institute will play a vital role in advancing research, analysis, and meaningful dialogue as we work toward a united and prosperous Somalia built on justice, security, and development. I firmly believe in the values of openness, truthfulness, and ethical conduct in research, and I encourage professionalism, the avoidance of bias, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives to ensure objective findings.
Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed
President of Southwest of Somalia
I warmly welcome the establishment of the IRAD Institute, which arrives at a crucial moment for the Southwest State. This initiative holds great promise for exploring and discovering the untapped richness of our civilization, history, and heritage. I am optimistic about its potential to become a vital platform for scholars and politicians, elevating discourse and fostering meaningful exchanges. The institute will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our state and nation, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations as we look forward to its continued success.
Hon. Abdullahi Haji Hassan
Southwest State Minister of Interior, Local Government and Reconciliation
As a Member of the Somali House of the People, I am honored to witness the launch of the IRAD Institute, a vital hub for evidence-based research in security, reconciliation, politics, and economic development. This institute is poised to play a transformative role, not only in the Southwest state but across Somalia. I commend the institute’s commitment to collaborating with local universities and emphasize the importance of establishing dedicated library facilities and office spaces to fully realize its objectives. The IRAD Institute will undoubtedly be a cornerstone in advancing knowledge and fostering socio-economic development for our people.
Dr. Ali Said Faqi
Scientist, Diplomat & Member of the Federal Parliament
I am truly excited about the launch of the IRAD Institute, which I believe will serve as a transformative platform for research, dialogue, and evidence-based narratives. As we face numerous challenges in the Southwest, the institute will play a critical role in addressing these issues and shaping our perspectives on politics, security, and economics. I envision IRAD as a hub for unbiased research and ethical discourse, dedicated to fostering progress and countering false narratives in our region. This is a vital step toward a brighter future for Baidoa and the Southwest State.
Abdullahi Ali Watiin
DC and Mayor of Baidoa, Southwest State of Somalia
As the Speaker of the Southwest Traditional Elders, I wholeheartedly commit to collaborating with the institute in the vital areas of reconciliation, culture, and preserving the historical narrative of our state. This initiative marks a crucial step toward honoring our past and shaping a unified future for our people.
Malaaq Deeraw
Chief Elder, Southwest State of Somalia
I am thrilled about the collaboration between our institutes, both committed to advancing research and thought leadership in the think tank industry. The Southwest region’s rich history and diverse dialects are vital components of our cultural heritage, and I urge intellectuals to explore and safeguard these treasures. The IRAD Institute plays a critical role in guiding government interventions and offering sustainable solutions to ongoing challenges. Established during a pivotal moment in Somalia’s rebuilding, it is well-positioned to represent the authentic narrative of Southwest state across strategic fronts and contribute to the nation’s progress into a new era.
Mr. Mursal Saney
Executive Director, Heritage Institute
Asal Consulting, in partnership with the IRAD Institute, is honored to host the 'Southwest State Perspectives on the Social Contract' Symposium. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering meaningful discourse on Somali perspectives of the social contract, particularly its relevance to citizenship, political settlements, and state-building. The symposium addressed key issues such as inclusive development policies and outcomes, providing a platform for local voices to influence federal and state discussions. Through this partnership, we aim to develop strategies deeply rooted in the local context, addressing the unique challenges facing the Southwest State of Somalia.
Maimuna Mohamed
Head of Research, Learning & Inclusion at Asal Consulting
I appreciate IRAD's event on district council formation. While progress has been made in women’s representation, the required quotas are not yet met. As I’ve stated, 'Women’s voices are still not fully represented. We must ensure the council formation process adheres to gender quotas and provides a platform for women’s perspectives.'
Hindiya Isaaq
Baidoa District Women Commissioner
As a women’s activist representing Hiil-bilaang Platform, I commend the recent increase in the women’s quota from 16-20% in Southwest State and other regions, a significant step forward. However, this progress is still insufficient. The main challenge remains resistance from local elders. We must continue advocating for stronger representation and ensure that women’s voices are fully included in the district council formation process.
Amina Mohamed Abdi
Women Activist, Hiil-bilaang Platform
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the IRAD Institute for facilitating this crucial discussion on strengthening the justice system and finalizing the provisional constitution. The government is committed to amending the constitution and reinforcing judicial independence, ensuring it aligns with both legal standards and religious principles. This event provides a valuable platform for engaging directly with citizens, gathering their input, and fostering public trust in the justice system. Such efforts are integral to strengthening the social contract and advancing our national development.
Hon. Hassan Moallim Mohamud
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Federal Government of Somalia
