What We Do
Bareedo Platform works to strengthen inclusive democracy, empower citizens, and advance digital rights in Somalia. Through a combination of civic engagement, capacity building, digital innovation, and advocacy, we support communities—particularly youth, women, and marginalized groups—to actively participate in shaping decisions that affect their lives.
Our work is guided by the belief that inclusive participation is essential to achieving peace, stability, and sustainable development in Somalia.
1. Promoting Participatory Democracy
We advance inclusive and citizen-centered governance by enabling communities to actively engage in public decision-making processes.
Our Work Includes:
- Delivering civic education and voter awareness programs
- Training citizens in leadership, advocacy, and public participation
- Supporting youth, women, and displaced communities to engage in governance
- Facilitating dialogue between citizens and decision-makers
- Developing tools and resources for inclusive policymaking
Impact:
We have empowered thousands of citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to participate meaningfully in democratic processes, contributing to more inclusive and accountable governance systems.
2. Youth Empowerment and Leadership Development
As youth make up the majority of Somalia’s population, we focus on building their capacity to become active, informed, and responsible leaders.
Our Work Includes:
- Training youth in civic leadership, advocacy, and communication skills
- Supporting youth-led initiatives and networks
- Promoting youth participation in policy dialogue and public affairs
- Raising awareness on youth rights and responsibilities
Impact:
Our programs help young people transition from marginalization to meaningful participation, enabling them to contribute positively to their communities and the country’s future.
3. Digital Civic Engagement and Innovation
We leverage technology and civic tech solutions to strengthen citizen engagement and improve the relationship between citizens and government.
Our Work Includes:
- Developing and promoting digital participation platforms
- Providing online civic education and voter information tools
- Supporting local governments to adopt e-participation and e-governance systems
- Conducting research on digital democracy and citizen engagement
Impact:
Our digital solutions expand access to participation, making it easier for citizens to share ideas, raise concerns, and engage with decision-makers.
4. Digital Rights and Freedom of Information
We promote and defend digital rights as fundamental human rights, ensuring that citizens can safely access information and participate in the digital space.
Our Work Includes:
- Advocating for freedom of expression and access to information
- Promoting open data and government transparency
- Raising awareness on digital rights and online freedoms
- Monitoring and responding to violations such as censorship and internet shutdowns
Impact:
Our efforts contribute to a more transparent, accountable, and open digital environment, where citizens are informed and empowered.
5. Digital Security and Protection
We provide critical support to individuals and organizations at risk of digital threats, harassment, and cyberattacks.
Our Work Includes:
- Delivering digital security training to journalists, activists, and civil society
- Providing emergency technical support through our Digital Help Desk
- Supporting women and vulnerable groups facing online harassment and violence
- Building the capacity of organizations to manage digital risks
Impact:
We enhance the safety and resilience of civic actors, enabling them to operate securely and continue their work without fear.
6. Climate Democracy and Community Resilience
We integrate climate action with participatory governance, ensuring that vulnerable communities are included in climate-related decision-making.
Our Work Includes:
- Developing tools for community-based resource management
- Promoting inclusive participation in climate policymaking
- Supporting communities to address climate-related conflicts, particularly over water resources
- Engaging local leaders and stakeholders in sustainable solutions
Impact:
Our work strengthens community resilience and promotes equitable, conflict-sensitive approaches to climate challenges.
7. Social Cohesion and Inclusion
We work to foster peaceful coexistence and social cohesion, particularly in communities affected by displacement and migration.
Our Work Includes:
- Promoting dialogue between host communities and migrants
- Addressing issues related to rights, inclusion, and conflict prevention
- Supporting marginalized groups to access opportunities and participate in society
Impact:
We contribute to stronger, more cohesive communities where diversity is respected and inclusion is prioritized.
Our Approach
Across all our programs, Bareedo Platform applies a holistic and inclusive approach that combines:
- Community engagement and grassroots participation
- Capacity building and skills development
- Digital innovation and technology solutions
- Advocacy and policy influence
We work in partnership with local communities, civil society organizations, government institutions, and international partners to ensure sustainable and scalable impact.
Our Commitment
Bareedo Platform is committed to building a Somalia where:
- Citizens are actively engaged in governance
- Institutions are transparent and accountable
- Communities are inclusive, resilient, and empowered