ACT NOW for greater public representation of Libyan women

With just over a month until the first anniversary of the Libyan Revolution, the fate of Libyan women and their rights looks bleak. Although active in the making and consolidating of the February 17 uprising, these women are now greatly under-represented in executive bodies and, according to a draft electoral law released on 1 January, will be guaranteed only 10% of the seats within a national constituent assembly.

Given that this assembly will be responsible for drawing up a constitution and organising new elections for a permanent government, it is crucial that women are included more meaningfully now to ensure that they can safeguard their future.

Libyan women have been vocal in calling for protection of their liberties. Between 11 and 15 November 2011, the Voice of Libyan Women group orchestrated a women’s rights conference in Tripoli. Amongst those present were activists, the UN Special Envoy for Libya (Ian Martin) and the heads of the National Transitional Council (Mustafa Abdel Jalil and Abdurrahim El-Keib). However, concrete steps by these political actors are vital if the ideal of a fair and inclusive political infrastructure is to become a reality.

The Libyan Human Rights Alliance recently published a press release  that reflects the many civil society organisations that are dissatisfied with a 10% quota for women.

Sign this petition now to show your support for greater public representation of women in Libya.