GENEVA, Switzerland – Somalia’s Minister of Labour and Social Affairs has firmly denied reports that members of a government delegation attending an international labour summit in Geneva had defected or sought asylum, describing the claims as “entirely fabricated.”
Yusuf Mohamed Adan, Somalia’s Minister of Labour, dismissed rumors on Somali media and social platforms suggesting that delegates at the International Labour Organization (ILO) summit had abandoned their posts or fled.
“There is no truth whatsoever to these reports,” Adan told the BBC. “The Somali delegation fully participated in the ILO conference. Most have already returned home, and a few of us, including myself, remain in Geneva to finalize the official program.”
The 113th session of the ILO conference opened on June 1 and is scheduled to conclude on June 13. According to the minister, four Somali representatives are still in Geneva to complete official duties.
“Irresponsible actors”
Adan accused unnamed individuals of deliberately spreading misinformation to damage the reputation of the Somali government and its institutions.
“These are irresponsible actors who want to discredit the government and the ministry,” he said. “It is unfortunate that media segments have amplified such baseless allegations.”
He added that the ministry would launch a formal investigation to identify those behind the false reports and pursue legal action. “We are gathering evidence so that anyone involved in this misinformation campaign will be held accountable under the law.”
The minister also urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid sharing unverified information. “I encourage all Somalis to be cautious of false news and to seek information from credible sources,” he said.
The annual International Labour Conference is the ILO’s highest decision-making body. It brings together representatives of governments, employers, and workers from all 187 member states. The Geneva Summit serves to set global labour standards and shape employment policies.
This year’s agenda includes key issues such as enhancing occupational health and safety, protecting workers from biological hazards, promoting decent work, and strengthening formal economies in developing countries.
Somalia, an ILO member since 1960, is seeking to rebuild its labour institutions after decades of conflict. The country’s participation in the summit reflects its efforts to reengage with the international community and address long-standing labour market challenges.
Migration crisis looms
The false defection reports surfaced amid growing concern over the exodus of young Somalis seeking better opportunities abroad. High unemployment, insecurity, and lack of access to education and jobs have driven thousands to undertake dangerous journeys to Europe and beyond.
Somalia has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world—estimated at over 67%, according to United Nations data—fueling desperation and irregular migration.
Officials say the government is committed to creating employment opportunities at home and sees international cooperation, including with the ILO, as critical to reversing the migration trend.
“Addressing unemployment and expanding job opportunities is our top priority,” Adan said. “That is why Somalia’s engagement in forums like the ILO summit is so important.”