Mr. Maalim is deeply engaged in local civil society, and his contributions have been recognised by both community organisations and the municipality. Beyond his work in Norway, he also leads an education project for internally displaced children and youth in Somalia. We sat down with him to learn more about his journey and perspectives.
Why are you engaged in your local community?
➡ As a former refugee myself, I know how difficult it can be to arrive in a new country and feel part of society. That is why I am deeply engaged in my local community. I work to support newcomers and those who are not yet fully integrated, so they can feel included, valued, and at home.- What were your expectations of the Global Refugee Forum Periodic Review?
➡ My expectation of the Global Refugee Forum was to see meaningful dialogue translated into concrete action. I hoped the Forum would strengthen cooperation across borders and sectors, and highlight how investing in refugees – in education, skills, and inclusion – benefits both refugees and host societies. Most importantly, I expected the Forum to provide space for refugees to meaningfully participate, to be heard, and to contribute their lived experience to shaping policies and solutions that affect their lives. - What have you been involved in at the GRF PR so far?
➡ At the Forum, I have participated in the plenary session and several key side events. These included discussions on meaningful refugee participation, the role of universities in refugee support, the Nansen Refugee Award Ceremony, and sessions focusing on collaboration in refugee response and refugee empowerment. In addition, I have taken part in several bilateral meetings. Through these engagements, I have gained a clearer understanding of the international refugee system and how it operates, informed by both lived experience and community-based work. - What has made the most impact?
➡ What impressed me the most was seeing how the international community remains willing to support refugees, even in a very challenging global context. Despite multiple crises and limited resources, there is still strong commitment and solidarity. That was the most impactful part of the Forum for me. - What outcomes of the GRF PR are you hoping for?
➡ The international refugee system is under significant and growing strain, with unprecedented levels of forced displacement, including refugees and internally displaced persons, driven by conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Gaza, among others, as well as by climate-related shocks such as floods and extreme weather events. At the same time, humanitarian funding is declining, increasing pressure on host countries and affected communities. In this context, I hope the GRF contributes to strengthening a coordinated and united international response, bringing together UN agencies, governments, NGOs, civil society, the private sector, and refugee leaders to ensure protection, dignity, and longer-term solutions for millions of people affected by displacement worldwide. - What did you think of the Nansen Award?
➡ The Nansen Award was deeply inspiring. It highlighted what dedicated individuals and communities can achieve under extremely difficult circumstances. Some of the stories shared were truly indescribable and showed the power of courage, compassion, and leadership. As a former refugee, seeing this kind of work recognised gave me hope and reaffirmed how important it is to acknowledge and support those who make a real difference. - Do you have a message for the Forum? And/or for Norway?
➡ This year, more than 300 people with lived refugee experience were included in the Global Refugee Forum process. This is a very positive and important step. My message to the Forum – and to Norway – is that this inclusion should continue to deepen, moving beyond participation towards meaningful involvement in decision-making. When refugees are part of shaping policies and solutions, responses become stronger, more relevant, and more effective. Together, we can achieve more.
On behalf of the Permanent Mission of Norway we thank you for taking the time to speak with us and share your inspiring journey and perspectives. Your dedication to supporting refugees and promoting inclusion—both in Norway and through your education initiatives in Somalia—is truly commendable.