The courage of those women then can only be matched by your courage since then and through today as you work tirelessly and with resolute motivation to advance the cause of women and the country at large.
You have proven your commitment to creating a new Libya, struggling with conviction as individuals or through non-government organizations to cement the achievements and the gains made so that your families and children can have a better future. This is of extreme importance for the country as it navigates its way to the shores of peace and prosperity.
Women participation in the country's first free elections in over four decades was a testament to that commitment to be a main foundation to nation-building. Women, just like men, enthusiastically lined up in large numbers outside polling stations to proudly cast their votes. Women candidates ran and were elected to the General National Congress.
In the government, there are two women Cabinet ministers. Congresswomen recently formed their own caucus to further their common goals as women.
Women have a principal role to play at this important period in Libya’s history as preparations are underway for elections of a Constitution-Drafting Assembly, to be followed by the process of drafting the country's constitution and then putting the proposed constitution to a referendum.
The Constitution is a milestone in Libya’s democratic transition towards stability and prosperity. Representation and meaningful participation of women in state institutions, in all aspects of the Constitution-Drafting Assembly elections and in the constitution-making process will significantly contribute to the building of the new Libya.
