Last year, UNSMIL celebrated the International Women's Day with Libyan women in Tripoli. The women came together, developed their theme of the day, and shared their hopes and aspirations. Libyan women demanded for their rights to be integrated in the constitution, and the realization of their full potential as equal partners in the democratic transition of Libya. That was a continuation of their remarkable role in the 17th of February revolution. Since then, Libyan women have actively engaged in the political and public domains. They are represented in the different elected institutions. Despite this, there is a long way to go before Libyan women fully realize their aspirations and ambitions.

Since last year's International Women's Day, armed conflict and the growing terrorists' attacks have affected women in different ways. Assassination of women activists, internal and external displacement, are some of the results of the lack of security in the country. Libyan women, however, have actively continued their struggle.

Libyan women have been active peacemakers. In January 2015, a group of women activists made a statement urging the warring parties to engage in the dialogue and implement a cease-fire. They made their voice heard, and contributed to the continuous demands for peaceful resolution of the conflict in Libya. Libyan women have led processes in which their aspirations and demands in the constitution have been clearly articulated. They have met with members of the Constitution Drafting Assembly and advocated for inclusion of their demands. I salute Libyan women for their hard work and unwavering commitment in the struggle for democracy and equal rights for men and women.

I highly appreciate the continued efforts of Libyan women to support the dialogue process and their desire to play a central role and be an active partner, which the United Nations and myself are committed to promote. I believe, unfolding the full potential and of Libyan women can and will contribute to sustained peace and security for the generations to come.

This year, the theme of international women day is "Empowering Women, empowering humanity- Picture it"; Let me conclude with the words of the Secretary General on this occasion: "Empowered women and girls are the best hope for sustainable development following conflict. They are the best drivers of growth, the best hope for reconciliation, and the best buffer against radicalization of youth and the repetition of cycles of violence."

This is my message today. I wish all Libyan people a happy International Women's Day