Press release: Norway supports UN Women to advance Libyan women’s participation in peacebuilding and political processes

With generous support from the Government of Norway, UN Women will intensify its efforts to advance the Women, Peace and Security agenda in Libya at this critical juncture.

The Government of Norway has contributed USD 570,000 to UN Women Libya to promote the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women, peace and security and support Libyan women’s participation in peacebuilding and recovery efforts.

“We are very excited and proud to be part of the ongoing political process in Libya through our engagement with UN Women Libya. Women’s participation in political decision-making at the highest levels, and at crucial crossroads in a country’s history is key to create necessary conditions for inclusive and sustainable peace.” Said Ms. Natasha Lind, Ambassador to Egypt and Libya at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Cairo. “We highlight again the importance of supporting the 17 women in the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum and are hoping for a positive outcome of this important process that will also benefit women’s inclusion in political life in Libya in the longer term.”

The ongoing challenges to Libya’s political and security context impact the lives of all Libyans, particularly women and girls who have borne the brunt of the civil war. As a result of these volatile dynamics, Libya continues to be a priority country for the United Nations Security Council and Human Rights Council. Libyan women have been deeply affected by the conflict and related gender-based discrimination that limits their enjoyment of their fundamental economic, political and social rights.

In order to reach a sustainable peace, it is critical to adopt a gender-sensitive and inclusive approach to the peace and political processes currently underway. Furthermore, ensuring that women are able to participate fully in the electoral process at all levels is key to a stable post-conflict Libya that protects the rights of all women and men.

“Norway has been one of UN Women’s long-standing partners in advancing women’s rights and gender equality in Libya and beyond.” Said Ms. Begoña Lasagabaster, UN Women Representative in Libya. “With this generous support, we will intensify our efforts to leverage the vast expertise of Libyan women and gender equality advocates across the country to promote the participation of women in Libya’s political life and peacebuilding efforts.”    

This contribution from the Government of Norway is part of a longstanding partnership in the Framework Agreement in the Field of Development Cooperation between the Government of Norway and UN Women.

For more information, please contact Samer Abu Rass: [ Click to reveal ]