On Monday, the European Union Mission in Libya urged the Libyan House of Representatives to pass a draft law aimed at combating violence against women, which was approved by the legislative committee on January 18.
The appeal coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, highlighting the need for urgent action to address gender-based violence in Libya.
The EU Mission also announced the launch of its annual 16-day campaign to raise awareness and advocate for an end to violence against women. Ambassador Nicola Orlando reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to standing with Libyan citizens and institutions to tackle this global issue, emphasizing that the protection of women and girls is a shared responsibility.
International organizations have voiced alarm over the prevalence of violence against women in Libya, which has worsened due to political instability, entrenched societal norms, and weak legal protections. The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has highlighted these challenges, calling on Libyan authorities to act swiftly.
The ICJ has expressed particular concern about plans to establish a “morality police” in western Libya, warning that such measures could further restrict women’s freedoms and exacerbate gender-based violence under the guise of enforcing societal norms.
The proposed legislation aligns with international standards and would be a step toward addressing widespread concerns about the lack of adequate safeguards for women. It also underscores the importance of promoting a societal shift to challenge harmful norms that perpetuate violence and inequality.
Libyan women continue to face a complex array of challenges, including domestic abuse, limited access to justice, and cultural restrictions on personal freedoms. Years of conflict and political instability have only deepened these issues, leaving many women vulnerable.
