International Human Rights Day : Local Statement - Libya

Europe Libya

BRUSSELS, 10 December 2023 / PRN Africa / -- On 10 December 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, marking a milestone for humankind. Annually observed on the same date, International Human Rights Day commemorates this pivotal declaration, serving as a reminder that every individual worldwide is inherently entitled to fundamental rights and freedoms, without distinctions of any kind.

As we mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this year holds particular significance in reaffirming the unwavering dedication of the EU and its Member States to supporting Libya in its efforts to achieve stability and reinforce peace in a rights-based manner.

The significance of human rights in Libya is woven into the fabric of its societal values and reflected in Libya's ratification of nearly all core human rights treaties. It is timely to underscore Libya's strides and commitments regarding international obligations and cooperation with human rights bodies. The signing in May 2023 of the Declaration of Intent by the Libyan Presidential Council and the Co-chairs of the Berlin Process’ International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Working Group stands as a reinforcement of the pledge to integrate Human Rights into Libya's political and reconciliation process.

This year has also witnessed the tragic events in Derna and Eastern Libya. The EU and its Member States stand in solidarity with the affected population and with Libyan authorities and civil society in their efforts to assist those in need, and safeguard their Human Rights. A transparent, rights-based, national reconstruction platform, spanning geographical and political divides, and backed by accountable financial support for reconstruction, is crucial. Moreover, it is essential to strengthen the pivotal role of civil society, given its forefront in providing localised aid, as it is paramount to ensure social support for the victims and restore their rights to life, dignity, security, shelter, food, health, and free access to information.

Sustained endeavours are imperative. The shift from conflict to justice-based national reconciliation represents an enduring journey for Libyans. We stand ready to foster their efforts by supporting concrete actions to advance transitional justice, rebuild trust in State institutions, rule of law, and address the ongoing Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law violations documented by relevant international reports. Human rights violations and arbitrary detentions and disappearances by groups acting outside any legal framework are an important concern. Central to this endeavour is the prevention of future transgressions, a strong and independent justice body that safeguards due process rights, equal access to justice for all including migrants, the safeguarding of fundamental rights of civilians against armed violence, concrete measures to avoid misinformation and hate-speech both online and offline. Ensuring the protection of migrants’ right requires a multifaceted approach that addresses detention centres to adhere to international human rights standards and combatting human trafficking by strengthening law enforcement.

Civic space provides room for dialogue, allowing active people engagement in shaping their country's future. Civil Society Organizations (CSO) hold a vital role in fostering an inclusive political process, by raising awareness and observing elections during all stages of the process. National reconciliation and free and transparent elections cannot be achieved without a safe and open civic space and full participation of civil society. Developments linked to the legal framework for CSOs and INGOs and their registration have further complicated and restricted an already challenging operating environment. The EU and its Member States continuously engage with Libya and its civil society on this important matter. Furthermore, the underrepresentation of women in decision-making spheres remains a concern. Their involvement in Libya's reconciliation process is crucial, not solely for equality but also to enhance social cohesion. Hence, the EU and its Member States staunchly advocate for increased female engagement in public life, amplifying their role in the political and social sphere. Achieving inclusive social cohesion also requires that communities such as the Tuareg, Tebu and Amazigh are represented in decision-making processes and inclusive governance, in all aspects of society.

Credible, transparent, and inclusive elections form the bedrock of democracy. The EU Delegation and Embassies of EU Member States in Libya are committed to engaging all stakeholders in creating an environment conducive to this purpose. We advocate for a space where a robust civil society can work for the benefit of all. Libyan authorities and human rights defenders can rely on the EU and its Member States to actively pursue the effective implementation of Human Rights standards and the preservation of the underlying universal principles.

Copyright European Union, 1995-2023

SOURCE European External Action

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