The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) affirmed that women will constitute at least 35% of the Structured Dialogue’s members. This is part of its effort to enhance female participation in political decision-making and negotiation processes in the country.
The announcement followed extensive consultations held by the mission. About one hundred women from inside and outside Libya participated. This included young women, women with disabilities, and women from marginalized areas. The goal was to empower women to present their priorities and recommendations for the dialogue. The dialogue covers four key areas: governance, economy, security, and national reconciliation and human rights.
Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Hanna Tetteh, delivered a statement. “Despite gradual progress, women in Libya still face systematic obstacles,” she said. These barriers hinder their participation in political institutions and decision-making. “We are committed to ensuring at least 35% female participation in all four tracks of the Structured Dialogue.” Tetteh also stressed the need to ensure women’s priorities reach the discussion table.
She added that the Structured Dialogue will allow for further consultation. This includes communication with women who are not dialogue members. The process will help formulate common positions and provide technical support. It also involves monitoring the implementation of women’s recommendations. It will ensure human rights considerations are integrated into all thematic areas.