Somalia

Returns to Somalia are considered as unreasonable for a large part of the country. Due to the clan situation, security is very low all over the country, which is recognized by the SEM. In contrast, refugee status is hard to get since the situation is “everyone against everyone”.

Practical advice:

• Many Somalis live in Ethiopia. It is important for these people to make it plausible that they are not Ethiopians.

• Keep in mind that someone could also be a refugee if this person is subject to serious disadvantage for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or due to their political opinions in their country of last residence (which may be Ethiopia).

• Ask people where they come from. Returns to some parts of Northern Somalia and Puntland are deemed reasonable by the Swiss Federal Administrative Court. If the person comes from this region, discuss in detail why in his/her particular situation a return is not possible despite of the generally “safe” situation there.