Libya adopts an unprecedented decree protecting victims of sexual violence
| Publisher | International Federation for Human Rights |
| Publication Date | 19 February 2014 |
| Cite as | International Federation for Human Rights, Libya adopts an unprecedented decree protecting victims of sexual violence, 19 February 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5329b15212.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Today (Wednesday 19 February), the Libyan Minister of Justice, Mr Salah El Marghany, adopted a text protecting victims of sexual violence by ministerial decree. This text is a world first.
It recognises victims of sexual violence perpetrated during the revolution in Libya as victims of war and provides them with access to reparation necessary to enable them to rebuild their lives.
"This decree will contribute to breaking the silence that surrounds rape and other crimes of sexual violence. Thousands of women in Libya were awaiting its adoption. We hope that it will inspire other countries throughout the world", said Souhayr Belhassen, Honorary President of FIDH.
Yesterday evening, during a meeting organised by FIDH, the Observatory on Gender in Crisis and the Delegation for women's rights of the French Parliament, Mr Salah El Marghany expressed his intention to pass the draft law in the form of a decree, considering that the victims should not have to wait any longer for justice.
Libyan civil society and FIDH will continue to call on the Libyan parliament to assume its responsibility towards the victims by adopting the text as a law.
Last Update 20 February
