Harsh Islamic law has returned a semblance of order to some areas, including parts of Mogadishu long plagued by lawlessness. Islamic courts are imposing sentences that include executions and amputations in accordance with Shari'a law. Rights to free expression and association are ignored. Few autonomous civic or political groups can organize or operate safely. Several small newspapers and newsletters are published in Mogadishu, but the few independent journalists are under constant threat.
International correspondents visit only at great risk.
During the year, several journalists were arrested in Somaliland for criticizing the local government and suggesting that full press freedom does not exist. Under customary practices and variants of Koranic law, women experience intense societal discrimination. Infibulation, the most severe form of female genital mutilation, is routine. Various armed factions have recruited children into their militias. The Republic of Somaliland has exercised de facto independence since May 1991.