The High National Elections Commission (HNEC) held a dialogue session focusing on the challenges women faced while contesting individual seats in the second round of municipal council elections. The event, organized under the supervision of the Women’s Support Unit, aimed to strengthen women’s engagement in future electoral processes across Libya.
The session brought together female candidates from various regions, electoral awareness ambassadors, media professionals, and representatives from civil society organizations. Participants shared their personal experiences, highlighting both achievements and barriers encountered during the recent municipal elections.
Rabab Halab opened the session with remarks emphasizing the continued importance of empowering women and ensuring their full participation in all stages of the electoral process. She stressed that supporting women is one of the main pillars of a successful and inclusive democratic transition in Libya.
Researcher Khadija Al-Buaishi presented an analytical report outlining indicators of women’s participation during the second municipal election cycle. She showcased key successes while also detailing the structural and social challenges that hindered female candidates from competing effectively.
The meeting featured group discussions, interactive workshops, and testimonies from candidates. Participants explored women’s roles in election awareness, voting mobilization, media coverage, and observation efforts.
The session concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing women’s representation and influence in upcoming electoral events, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to gender inclusivity in Libya’s democratic process.
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.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
