IRIS Forum 11 in Galkacyo Discusses Community Responsibility and Pathways to Prevent Revenge Killings

Galkacyo, Somalia — The Institute for Research and Insight Studies (IRIS) conducted its 11th IRIS Forum in Galkacyo under the theme “Revenge Killings in Mudug: Community Responsibility and Pathways to Peace.” The forum brought attention to the causes and consequences of revenge killings and explored practical, community-based approaches to preventing retaliatory violence and strengthening peace.

The discussion emphasized the shared responsibility of families, traditional and religious leaders, youth, government institutions, civil society organizations, and other community actors in preventing revenge killings. Participants examined the importance of early warning, timely intervention, mediation, reconciliation, and existing community peacebuilding practices.

The forum also focused on moving beyond identifying problems towards developing practical solutions. Through discussions and participatory activities, participants explored warning signs that may lead to revenge violence, the actors responsible for responding, and actions communities can take to prevent further escalation.

A key focus was identifying opportunities to interrupt the cycle of revenge killings through dialogue, community engagement, and reconciliation mechanisms. The discussion highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts and proactive intervention before disputes escalate into further violence.

As a follow-up to the forum, IRIS Institute will publish an infographic mapping the cycle of revenge killings and identifying key points for intervention. The visual will illustrate how retaliatory violence develops, where the cycle can be interrupted, who can intervene, and what practical actions can help prevent further violence.

The forum forms part of IRIS Institute’s commitment to promoting evidence-informed dialogue, community participation, and practical policy recommendations on issues affecting peace and stability in Somalia.

Through initiatives such as the IRIS Forum, the Institute aims to bring communities, researchers, traditional leaders, and relevant stakeholders together to identify locally grounded solutions to social challenges.

The central message of the forum was clear: preventing revenge killings requires shared responsibility, timely intervention, and a collective commitment to breaking the cycle of violence.