The United Nations envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh, has confirmed that the forthcoming political roadmap will prioritize placing Libyan women at the core of the decision-making process.
Speaking during a virtual discussion with a group of young Libyan women, Tetteh emphasized that the new roadmap, set to be presented to the UN Security Council on August 21, will be built around the participation of citizens, not just political elites.
She explained that the roadmap will aim to return the Libyan people to the center of political life, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and cultural components. “Women must be part of Libya’s political process. The time has come to ensure their inclusion in these opportunities,” Tetteh said, underlining the UN mission’s commitment to promoting equality and inclusivity in the transition process.
Tetteh’s remarks highlight a long-standing criticism of Libya’s political landscape, where women have been largely marginalized from leadership and decision-making roles despite their significant contributions to communities across the country. The envoy stressed that genuine stability cannot be achieved without broad participation that reflects the diversity of Libyan society.
The UN roadmap, which will be unveiled in Tetteh’s upcoming briefing before the Security Council, is expected to outline a pathway toward resolving Libya’s prolonged political crisis and organizing credible national elections. The roadmap will also build on recommendations gathered through consultations, open calls, and surveys involving Libyan citizens.
For many observers, the focus on women and youth signals an attempt to broaden legitimacy and counterbalance the dominance of entrenched political actors and armed groups.
