Since its establishment as a Republic in 1960, Somalia has experienced repeated political instability and civil war. With the rise of the insurgency group Al-Shabaab in the early 2000s, Somalia has been impacted by the rise in terrorism and violence against civilians. Significant drought and famine have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. According to data from UNHCR, at least 3.5 million Somalis are internally displaced, with another 500,000 seeking asylum largely in neighboring Kenya, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. Of Somali children fleeing to neighboring countries, between 30-50 percent are malnourished. 

Over the last decade, the U.S. has resettled close to 32,000 Somalis through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. This accounts for nearly 8% of all refugees relocating to the United States. 

Additional resources for providers supporting Somali children and youth are below.