Joint Statement by UN Envoy on Youth Ahmad Alhendawi and SRSG for Libya Martin Kobler on International Youth Day

“Libyan Youth’s role is crucial in ending Libya’s Crisis…Their commitment is essential for Libya’s stability and prosperity.”

Today, the world celebrates the International Youth Day. Five years ago, Libyan youth led a remarkable revolution that ousted Muammar Gaddafi and his dictatorship after 42 years of rule. While Libya faces enormous challenges now, Libyan youth have never lost hope. Their contribution to rebuilding a democratic and modern state remains strong and crucial.

On this occasion, the United Nations lauds the tremendous efforts of Libyan youth, who have made many sacrifices in the pursuit of freedom, so that Libyans can live in a just and democratic society where human rights and the rule of law prevail. It stresses the need for Libyan youth to play a key role in shaping the future of Libya

UN Secretary-General Special Envoy on Youth, Ahmed Alhendawi, said: “I pledge to advocate for better participation of Libyan youth in the peace process, and I ask the youth not to give in to frustration and to live up to the burden of creating Libya’s future. There is a need now to work with the youth, not only to work for them, and to ensure their representations and active engagement in putting an end to the conflict.”

“Libyan youth constitute the vast majority of Libya’s population and they are the most affected by the conflict. There can be no solution in Libya without the participation of its youth; only their commitment, can bring about stability and prosperity for Libya,” said the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya, Martin Kobler. “Their role is crucial in ending Libya’s crisis and building its future,” he added.

Despite the crisis engulfing the country, Libyan youth organizations with the support of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are commemorating this occasion in 12 municipalities across Libya, raising their voice and advocating for peace, reconciliation and social cohesion in Libya.