Somalia, officially known as the Federal Republic of Somalia, is located in the Horn of Africa. The nomadic traditions of the Somalis and their vibrant oral storytelling imbue the country with a deep sense of community.

Somalia is primarily Sunni Muslim, followed by a small Sufi Muslim minority.

The legal system combines Islamic law (Sharia), Customary Law (Xeer), and Common Law. These legal systems often overlap, particularly in family, marriage, and inheritance matters.

Like many other nations, Somalia inherited colonial-era laws from the historical ruling countries, primarily Italy and Britain. Suicide was considered a crime at the time, and still remain on the statutes, as stated in the Penal Code Article 437, which reads, "Whoever attempts [16. 17 P.C] to cause his own death by committing an act sufficient to cause it, shall be punished with imprisonment [96 P.C] up to five years or fin [97 P.C] up to Sh. So. 10,000."

The World Health Organization (WHO) advocates for the decriminalisation of suicide and suicide attempts. Finding out more and removing such laws removes stigma and allows avenues for providing appropriate mental health support to individuals in crisis.

Criminalising suicide punishes distress. Decriminalising suicide saves lives.