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Election commission committed to holding inclusive elections

May 28, 2022
On the sixth anniversary of its Women’s Support Unit, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) acknowledges the commitment of Libya’s High National Election Commission (HNEC) to holding inclusive elections.
On the sixth anniversary of its Women’s Support Unit, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) acknowledges the commitment of Libya’s High National Election Commission (HNEC) to holding inclusive elections.

TRIPOLI — On the sixth anniversary of its Women’s Support Unit, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) acknowledges the commitment of Libya’s High National Election Commission (HNEC) to holding inclusive elections.

The HNEC is the first Commission in the region to establish such a unit — specifically tasked to facilitate women’s participation in elections and, ultimately, to realize more proportionate representation in political life and government.

UNDP Libya Resident Representative, Marc-André Franche explained, “Elections are seen as a landmark on the journey to peace and stability and the only way forward to the ongoing political crisis precisely because they give a voice — and give power — to all people.”

According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to take part in governance. To date, however, Libyan women have been consistently under-represented as voters, candidates and in government.

Conversely, women who are visible in political life — including candidates and activists — have been subject to character defamation, threat, violence and death.

“Preparing for elections means preparing an environment in which all people are able to participate in them, and in the activities and discussions surrounding them,” said HNEC Chair Dr. Emad Al-Sayeh.

Since its establishment in 2016, the Women’s Support Unit has taken a lead role in advocating inclusive participation in elections; reducing practical impediments to women; and raising awareness of issues — such as online hate speech and violence against women.

As part of today’s celebrations, the HNEC has collaborated with Libya post to release a national postage stamp. Explains Commissioner Mrs. Rabab Halab, “The stamp is a reminder that elections are for everybody.”

It is the first in what is intended to be an annual series of commemorative, awareness-raising stamps. — SG


May 28, 2022
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