A dialogue session titled “Women’s Leadership and a Future Vision” was organized as part of the “Future Leaders” project, celebrating the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the “Atwar Organization for Research and Community Development.” The session aimed to pass the torch to a new generation of female leaders and encourage young women to continue the struggle for rights and dignity.
The session discussed the reality of Libyan women and the complex challenges facing young women on their path to decision-making positions.
Absence of Accountability
It was emphasized that the most prominent challenges include the absence of accountability and impunity in cases of violations against women, pointing to murders of female leaders and rights defenders that have gone unpunished, sending clear threatening messages to any woman seeking change. The discussion also covered weak legislation, the absence of deterrent penalties, the spread of hate speech and extremism, in addition to the lack of local will to adopt real policies to protect and empower women.
Regarding how to transform social criticism and field obstacles into leadership opportunities, it was stressed that women cannot face these challenges alone. The solution lies in networking and building supportive feminist alliances, and working to unify the cause and the goal. It was considered that the very presence and voice of a woman constitute an act of resistance and a continuous revolution.
Protecting Women
It was also clarified that real protection for a young female leader begins with genuine empowerment, through the state adopting a clear and binding strategy to protect women, responding quickly to reports, and putting an end to impunity. There was a call to move from promises to implementation.
The session concluded with a message of appreciation for all the female strugglers and defenders of Libyan women’s rights, with wishes that the new year brings more struggle, rights, and deserved dignity for women in Libya.
