Benghazi – Libya, like other nations, observes International Women’s Day on March 8th each year. This occasion highlights the vital role of Libyan women in development and nation-building. It acknowledges their tangible achievements across various fields. The day also emphasizes the importance of boosting women’s participation in public life and decision-making. It further sheds light on the challenges they face amid economic, social, and political transformations.
Nermin Al-Sharif is the head of the General Federation of Libyan Trade Unions. She affirmed that International Women’s Day is a crucial juncture. It allows for evaluating the situation of working women. It also recalls their struggle for dignity, social justice, and the right to decent work and a decent life. Al-Sharif stressed that Libyan women, especially those in the workforce, face severe economic challenges. These challenges are imposed by the country’s current circumstances. She added that thousands of women continue to work and strive daily. They do this to meet their families’ needs. This happens despite rising living costs and declining income levels. It reflects their deep commitment and responsibilities towards society.
Al-Sharif clarified that working women in Libya bear heavy burdens. This is due to the current economic conditions. Nevertheless, they persist in fulfilling their roles with determination and responsibility. They strive to maintain family stability. They also contribute to building society. She affirmed that the General Federation of Libyan Trade Unions highly appreciates retired women. These women dedicated many years to serving the nation. She noted that calculating pensions based only on the last three years does not reflect their true contribution over their entire working lives.
Al-Sharif also highlighted the struggles of widows and divorced women. They face difficulties registering for the social solidarity system. Some retirees also experience hardship due to delayed pension payments. This adds to the living pressures on these groups. It also limits their ability to meet basic needs. She affirmed that the General Federation of Libyan Trade Unions renews its commitment. It pledges to defend the rights of working and retired women. It aims to improve their living conditions. It also seeks to ensure a fairer and more equitable work environment. This will preserve their dignity and recognize their role in building society.
Al-Sharif emphasized that issues concerning working women are a common humanitarian cause. They require genuine national and international solidarity. This ensures rights to decent work, social protection, and equal opportunities. She pointed out that Libyan women remain a model of resilience and work. This is true despite all difficulties. The working woman secures a livelihood. The mother bears family burdens. The citizen bravely confronts crises. All demonstrate an exceptional ability to overcome challenges. Al-Sharif asserted that all women deserve support, fairness, and true recognition. This should be achieved through fair policies and measures. These actions will restore hope for a better future.
She added that the Federation stands with women. It highlights the economic and social challenges they face. These include rising living costs, delayed salaries, and difficulties accessing social services. She affirmed that addressing these issues strengthens women’s role in society. It also contributes to building a stable, development-capable state.
Abeer Youssef Al-Mashiti is the Women’s Affairs Officer for the General Federation of Libyan Trade Unions. She also heads the General Syndicate of Hotels and Tourist Villages. Al-Mashiti affirmed that Libyan women have demonstrated resilience, work, and contributions across various sectors. This has been evident throughout different stages. She stressed that women have become essential partners in future-building and state decision-making. Al-Mashiti explained that Libyan women have been, and remain, a true force in the nation’s steadfastness. They have provided honorable examples in labor, production, trade union work, and community involvement. They have actively contributed to supporting stability and participating in development and reconstruction efforts. She emphasized the importance of supporting women. It is crucial to provide the right environment for them to perform their roles efficiently.
Al-Mashiti added that empowering women is no longer an optional choice. Boosting their participation in public life and decision-making is a national necessity. It is vital for achieving stability and sustainable development in Libya. She noted that this approach aligns with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 1325. This resolution concerns women, peace, and security. It calls for the active involvement of women in peace processes and institution-building. It also encourages their participation in policymaking and decision-making. This ensures fair representation of their needs and issues across all sectors.
Al-Mashiti expressed her appreciation for every Libyan woman who continues to work and contribute. This is despite the challenges. She affirmed utmost respect and gratitude for every patient and striving woman. These women contribute their knowledge and effort to build a better future for their homeland. They work to overcome social, economic, and political obstacles. Such obstacles might limit their full participation in society. Union leaders also emphasized the importance of ongoing programs and initiatives. These initiatives enhance the capabilities of Libyan women. They provide equal opportunities in education, employment, and political participation. They noted that investing in women’s capabilities is an investment in Libya’s entire future. Women are indispensable partners in achieving sustainable development. They help build a cohesive society capable of confronting challenges.