A/HRC/12/44 page 17 tolerant Sufi tradition of Islam. The emergence of more moderate Islamist forces in opposition to the hard-liners in some areas perhaps indicates the beginning of change from within the opposition as a whole. The concern of parents who do not wish their young boys to be forcibly recruited by the opposition forces to fight the Government is an important element of the people’s disenchantment with them. Another factor linked to the introduction of religious objectives in the conflict is the consequent waning of clan rivalry, which has long been the basis of conflict in Somalia. Last but not least, there are clear indications of war-fatigue in the population, who aspire to a normal life once again. 75. More defections from the opposition forces is likely if the Transitional Federal Government lives up to expectations. Among other things, it will have to ensure that its own forces, and those of its allies, including AMISOM, do not violate and in fact take care to respect human rights and the principles of humanitarian law. In addition, it will have to foster confidence in the minds of the people about its determination and ability to effect change in Somalia. 76. With regard to the latter, the Government will, first of all, have to demonstrate that it sincerely cares for the welfare of the people. The negative image that the people have had about their Government - that its primary concern is to stay in power, that it is the source of most corruption in the country and that it lacks commitment to improve the people’s lot - will have to change. 77. The independent expert sees some hope in this regard. He was impressed by the sincerity of the members of the new Government that he met. He has also been informed by many in the United Nations system, who liaise with them on a regular basis that they too are impressed by their goodwill. Many others have a similar, positive impression of the new Government. 78. The Government will obviously need the assistance of the international community to meet these expectations. It will have to be helped to take advantage of the new opportunities that are opening up. Both the Government and the international community will have to take some bold decisions and initiatives in this regard, and show creativity in dealing with this exceptional situation. 79. The focus of the United Nations on the security situation in Mogadishu and south and central Somalia, though understandable, has led to possibilities that exist in other areas, where security concerns are of much lesser magnitude, being overlooked. Foundations could be laid in these places for initiatives that would inspire people’s confidence in the Government, for example helping to develop the capacity of the people to earn a livelihood, to revive beneficial institutions destroyed by the war, and so on. The experience from such initiatives could then be replicated in other areas when circumstances permit. 80. The support of the international community to the Transitional Federal Government and its allies in fighting insurgency must be coupled with inducements and support for activities that would promote respect for human rights and humanitarian law, and ensure people’s support for the Government. Setting up some conditions for assistance in this regard may help the Government to think of alternative and creative ways of tackling the situation. 81. The exclusive focus on Mogadishu has led to the neglect of other places which could serve as temporary hubs for certain Government activities. The independent expert is not suggesting