IWD24 interview: Mariam Mohamed Hussein, Somalia
Mariam Mohamed Hussein
Co-founder and Program Manager, Hawa Feminist Coalition, Somalia
Mariam Mohamed Hussein (she/her), age 21, is a young feminist activist who has been actively advocating for the safety, equality, justice, rights, and dignity of young women and girls in Somalia, where they bear the unequal brunt of hardships occasioned by poverty, conflict, and clan-based culture, which promotes strict male hierarchy and authority.
Mariam is a co-founder of Hawa Feminist Coalition, the first and only young feminist movement in Somalia, working toward mobilizing and empowering young women and girls in feminist solidarity to build a strong feminist movement that can challenge the widespread sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls in Somalia to achieve a country where women and girls are valued as equals among members of the community, enjoy all their rights on an equal footing with others, and live in dignity.
Mariam has mobilized and trained more than 300 young women in feminist activism and leadership, which contributed to building a feminist movement in Somalia. She was recognized and listed at WOW's Young Leaders 2020.
Learn more about Hawa Feminist Coalition, Somalia here.
What does feminism mean to you in 2024?
“Feminism, in 2024, means advocating for the rights, equality, and empowerment of all genders. It recognizes and challenges the systemic barriers and discrimination that women and marginalized communities face. Feminism in 2024 also emphasizes intersectionality, acknowledging the interconnected nature of various forms of oppression, including race, class, and sexuality.”
If you could raise more awareness about a humanitarian issue or context what would it be and what do you want people to know?
“I would like to raise more awareness about the impact of conflict and displacement on women and girls in Somalia. It is crucial for people to understand that women and girls often bear the brunt of violence, displacement, and have limited access to resources during conflicts. I want people to know that investing in women's empowerment and ensuring their protection and participation is key to building sustainable peace and development.”
What do you think is currently the biggest obstacle to achieving gender justice?
“In Somalia, the biggest obstacle to achieving gender justice is deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequality. Harmful traditional practices, lack of access to quality education, limited economic opportunities, and gender-based violence pose significant challenges. Addressing these obstacles requires comprehensive efforts, including legal reforms, community engagement, and education on gender equality.”
What does being a member of the Feminist Humanitarian Network mean to you?
“Being a member of the Feminist Humanitarian Network means being part of a global community of like-minded activists and organizations working towards feminist approaches to humanitarian action. It provides a platform to learn from each other's experiences, amplify marginalized voices, and advocate for feminist principles in humanitarian responses. It is an opportunity to contribute to transformative change and ensure that humanitarian aid is inclusive, gender-responsive, and empowering.”
What is happening in the world today that gives you the most hope that we can one day achieve a fairer and more equal world?
“The growing global feminist movement gives me immense hope. Witnessing the collective action and resilience of individuals, particularly young activists and grassroots organizations, inspires me. The increased awareness and engagement around issues such as gender-based violence, climate justice, and intersectionality demonstrate a growing commitment to challenging oppressive systems and building a fairer and more equal world.”
In for 2024
“Intersectional feminism. We need to see more recognition and understanding of the interconnected nature of various forms of oppression and the importance of addressing them collectively.”
Out for 2024
“Gender stereotypes and discrimination. We need to see less of the harmful stereotypes and biases that limit opportunities and perpetuate inequality based on gender.”