On International Women’s Day, UN envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh, underscored the essential role of Libyan women in societal progress and governance, while acknowledging the challenges they face. Emphasizing the necessity for systemic change and legislative protections for women’s rights, she highlighted the recent election of the first female mayor as a step toward greater inclusion. Tetteh called for stakeholders to prioritize women’s empowerment and involvement in Libya’s development.
On International Women’s Day, UN envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh, emphasized the vital role of Libyan women in fostering societal progress and governance. She highlighted their remarkable achievements and their ongoing contributions, despite facing numerous obstacles. Tetteh remarked that women’s inclusion at all societal levels is crucial for sustainable peacebuilding efforts, reinforcing UNSMIL’s commitment to promoting women’s rights and participation in Libya’s development.
Tetteh acknowledged the challenges faced by women in Libya, particularly those engaged in public and political spheres, due to systemic barriers, discrimination, and violence. She noted that the lack of comprehensive legislation protecting women’s rights compounds these issues and limits societal benefits from their contributions beyond traditional roles. The situation calls for increased advocacy for women’s inclusion and protection.
A landmark achievement was the election of Libya’s first female mayor at the end of 2024, a milestone Tetteh labeled as significant for advancing women’s presence in governance. She insisted that this event should catalyze further progress, emphasizing the importance of women’s active participation in the political dialogue to realize inclusive governance structures.
Marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, Tetteh reminded stakeholders of the ongoing global effort to promote women’s rights in various sectors, including education and political participation. She asserted that respect for women’s rights is essential for unlocking their potential contribution to broader developmental and societal prosperity.
In closing, UNSMIL urged Libyan stakeholders to undertake decisive actions that elevate the status of women and girls, ensuring equal opportunities for involvement in the economy and society. Tetteh further stressed the necessity of fostering inclusive access to leadership roles for women, particularly young women and girls, in order to bolster Libya’s peace and development initiatives.
In summary, UN envoy Hanna Tetteh’s remarks on International Women’s Day highlight the vital contributions of Libyan women while recognizing the challenges they face. The need for systemic change and legislative measures to protect women’s rights is paramount. The recent election of Libya’s first female mayor illustrates potential progress, urging stakeholders to prioritize women’s inclusion and empowerment. Continued advocacy and action are essential for fostering an environment conducive to women’s participation in governance and societal development.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
