The Women's Support and Empowerment Unit for the Presidency Council held its first coordination meeting today, in the Prime Minister's Office in the Libyan capital Tripoli, with a number of representatives of embassies in in Libya, United Nations agencies, the European Union, the European Union Border Assistance Mission, in addition to International non-governmental organizations. Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Political Affairs Stephanie Williams attended the meeting.
 
The Unit’s Chairperson, Dr. Leila Al-Lafi, opened the meeting by presenting its objectives, the challenges it faces and the needed support, in addition to the structure of the unit.
 
“This is a significant moment in the history of Libyan women. This meeting marks the recognition by Libyan authorities of Libyan women's critical role in state-building, development and peacemaking efforts,” said Stephanie Williams addressing the meeting. She expressed UNSMIL’s commitment to secure strong participation of women and youth in the National Conference, stressing the key role women can play to ensure the Conference will succeed in achieving a historic settlement between the Libyan on the future of their country.
 
The meeting also represented an opportunity for the Women's Support and Empowerment Unit to learn about the support that the international community can provide.

Full remarks of DSRSG Stephanie Williams (PDF)