Understanding Gatekeeping in Somalia: A Three-Part Research Series
This research series, commissioned by the Somalia Cash Consortium and the BRCiS Consortium and conducted by E4C, offers a deep dive into the complex dynamics of gatekeeping affecting displaced populations in Somalia. Drawing from extensive fieldwork, stakeholder engagement, and political economy analysis, the Final Report maps out two distinct gatekeeping models—the organized IDP business model found in urban hubs like Mogadishu and Baidoa, and a more diffuse, clan-based model prevalent in rural and hard-to-reach areas. The Learning Brief distills key insights and practical guidance for humanitarian actors seeking to navigate these power dynamics and strengthen accountability. Complementing these, the Infographic provides a visual snapshot of how gatekeepers operate and the financial and social toll imposed on internally displaced persons. Together, these pieces shed light on the realities of aid access and control in Somalia and offer actionable entry points for more equitable and effective programming.
