On Human Rights Day, we remember the Libyans who rose up six years ago against an autocratic regime, demanding freedom, dignity and justice for all.  On this day, we also commemorate the many human rights activists who lost their lives defending human rights and freedom of speech across the country.

Promoting human rights is one of the core purposes of the United Nations, and the Organization has pursued this mission since its founding.  Protecting human rights is the only path toward a peaceful, democratic and prosperous state. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya will continue to monitor violations and advocate for the affirmation of human rights across the country.  

Over the past year, civilians in Libya continued to bear the brunt of the ongoing fighting.  Executions, abductions, torture and other forms of ill-treatment have become part of everyday life.  Women in Libya have been facing more discriminate measures against their freedom of movement and threats against their physical safety.  Establishing law and order, ending impunity and ensuing accountability are key priorities for Libya.  I would like to reiterate my full support to the efforts of the International Criminal Court and the Prosecutor’s investigations in Libya.

On this day, I call on Parties to the conflict to protect civilians and respect International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. I call on all Libyans to recommit to guaranteeing the fundamental freedoms, to step up for human rights and to stand for more humanity.