On Monday, the Libyan Minister of State for Women’s Affairs, Houria Al-Tarmal met with the representative of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) in Libya, Mikkeli Servadi. This was to discuss potential collaboration, and partnership avenues to bolster the capabilities of the youth in southern Libya.
During the meeting, Al-Tarmal emphasised the “vital importance of involving young women in civic life, and focusing on enhancing their skills and potential in a conducive environment.”
The two parties also touched upon the “Beti” centers, dedicated to building life skills for youths. They deliberated on coordination for new branches in several municipalities in the south.
Last month, UNICEF and the Libyan Ministry of Interior collaborated with the aim of enhancing a child-friendly justice system. The two parties are on the brink of sealing a joint action plan, marking a pivotal step towards forging a safe environment for children within the justice framework.
UNICEF persists in its mission to bolster the capacities of the Family and Child Protection Units. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both entities to prioritise the welfare, and rights of children in Libya.
The proposed joint action plan represents not only a synergy of efforts, but also a vision for the future where children’s rights are central to Libya’s justice system. As global and local entities join forces, the nation takes a step closer to ensuring that its youngest citizens experience fairness, security, and respect.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations, each backed by rogue militias and foreign governments.
The current stalemate grew out of the failure to hold elections in December 2021, and the refusal of Prime Minister Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba, who is leading the transitional government, to step down.