Women in Libya: The Ongoing Armed Conflict, Political Instability and Radicalization

Abstract

The story of the Arab spring uprising has unfolded quite differently in Libya than in its neighboring countries. In February 2011, civilian protests were met with brutal military oppression. Following this, the UN Security Council issued a resolution to protect civilians and launch targeted attacks against the Qaddafi regime. On October 21, 2011, the head of the TNC (National Transitional Council) declared Libya to be a liberated state. Women have been very involved and engaged during 2011 and throughout these past four years. They were present and active in political protests, organizing humanitarian relief and in some cases right behind rebel forces at the frontlines. However, they now face discrimination and violence not only by the various armed groups but also by the government and the political arena. The Constitutional Declaration of Libya contains clear references to equal rights, and states that all citizens are equal before the law in enjoying civil and political rights, equal opportunities, and the duties of citizenship without discrimination based on religion, sect, language, wealth, sex, descent, political views, social status, regional, family, or tribal affiliations (Constitutional Declaration 2011). However, the reality does not reflect the legislation and rights socially and culturally. This chapter is based on a peace theory of direct violence, structural violence, and cultural violence; in order to transform conflict, these three aspects need to be addressed. I selected three aspects that can be applied to the theory, an ongoing armed conflict/war, the political instability, the insurgency of extremists groups, and their effect on Libyan women’s participation in politics and social life.