UN envoy Hanna Tetteh advocates for the empowerment of Libyan women during International Women’s Day, emphasizing their contributions to society and the need for systemic changes to support their participation in governance. With the election of Libya’s first female mayor scheduled for 2024, she calls for decisive actions to ensure women’s rights and enhance their roles in decision-making.
Hanna Tetteh, the UN envoy to Libya, highlighted the vital role of women in Libya during the celebration of International Women’s Day. She noted the impressive historical and contemporary contributions of Libyan women, emphasizing their involvement in governance and community leadership despite facing significant challenges. Tetteh stressed that women’s inclusion in decision-making processes is essential for achieving sustainable peace in Libya.
In her statements, Tetteh reiterated UN Support Mission in Libya’s (UNSMIL) commitment to advocating for women’s rights and their safe participation in society. She recognized the systemic barriers of discrimination, violence, and lack of protective legislation that hinder women’s full participation in public and political life. These barriers prevent society from benefiting from their skills beyond domestic roles.
A notable achievement mentioned was the upcoming election of Libya’s first female mayor in 2024, which is seen as a pivotal moment for female representation. Tetteh indicated that this milestone should inspire further advancements for women to engage actively in the dialogue about development in Libya. Women’s participation in politics is deemed crucial for creating inclusive governance.
Additionally, Tetteh reminded that 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, a significant framework for promoting women’s rights. This declaration influences policies in sectors such as education, health, and economic empowerment, thereby emphasizing the importance of respecting women’s rights to enhance their societal contributions.
UNSMIL urged Libyan stakeholders to take meaningful actions to advance women’s rights and ensure equal opportunities in all economic sectors. Tetteh emphasized the need to create accessible leadership opportunities for women, especially younger women and girls, to foster peace and contribute to Libya’s development.
The article underscores the advocacy for women’s empowerment in Libya, highlighting their historical contributions and the barriers they currently face in governance and public life. Tetteh’s statements reflect the need for legislative support and active involvement of women in political processes. The upcoming electoral milestone signifies progress toward inclusive governance, with organizations like UNSMIL urging local stakeholders to prioritize women’s rights and participation for societal advancement.
Original Source: libyaobserver.ly
