On Saturday, the US Chargé d’Affaires to Libya, Jeremy Berndt, commended the participation of two remarkable Libyan women in the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), aimed at enhancing global peace and security efforts.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Berndt expressed his pride in the women’s upcoming trip to the United States for this vital program.
“It was a pleasure to welcome two distinguished Libyan women before their journey to the US, where they will participate in the IVLP focused on advancing peace and security,” Berndt shared.
The two participants, Mariam and Arij, have been recognized for their work in resolving local conflicts and building strong communities in war-torn Libya. Mariam is a key member of the Reconciliation Committee between the Tuareg and Tebu tribes in Ubari, a region fraught with long-standing tensions. Arij, on the other hand, has been playing a leading role in youth and women’s empowerment in the city of Hun, bringing fresh energy to peace and local development initiatives.
“They are both exemplary leaders actively contributing to peace efforts in Libya,” Berndt added. The IVLP, he noted, is expected to provide them with valuable insights and opportunities to showcase the incredible work being done by Libyan women in their pursuit of peace.
This initiative underscores the growing recognition of the vital role Libyan women are playing in the peace process. In a nation that has endured more than a decade of conflict, women like Mariam and Arij are not only working to heal local communities but are also challenging societal norms by stepping into leadership roles traditionally dominated by men. Their stories are inspiring symbols of Libya’s potential for recovery and unity.
Programs like the IVLP are instrumental in promoting cross-cultural exchange, equipping participants with leadership skills and global perspectives that can be applied to their peacebuilding efforts at home. By participating in such programs, Libyan women are gaining international recognition for their critical roles in securing a more stable and peaceful future for their country.
As Berndt concluded in his post: “We hope that the IVLP will provide them with valuable perspectives and give them the chance to shine a light on the fantastic work Libyan women are doing to promote peace and security in their homeland.”
