TRIPOLI - Today, on Human Rights Day, we are reminded that human rights are not distant ideals—they are the essentials of everyday life: dignity, freedom of expression, and access to education, healthcare, and justice, are not privileges; they are the foundations of peace and stability.

This year’s theme, “Our Everyday Essentials,” resonates deeply in Libya’s context. Years of conflict and division have eroded trust and weakened institutions. Every violation—whether arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, violence against women, or restrictions on freedoms—undermines Libya’s social fabric and delays progress toward unity.

This Human Rights Day comes at a pivotal moment as Libya embarks on a new political roadmap. Human rights are at its core: the right of all Libyans to participate, elect their leaders, live under a unified government and benefit from equitable development. UNSMIL is committed to ensuring rights are mainstreamed across governance, security, and economic reform, and that inclusive participation—of women, persons with disabilities, and cultural components—remains a priority.

For Libya, fostering an enabling environment where the fundamental rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly are respected and protected, but also viewed as a critical foundation for free and open dialogue, is essential.

This day also coincides with the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Violence against women—physical, psychological, or digital—remains a pervasive barrier to equality. UNSMIL calls for stronger protections, safer digital spaces, and swift enactment of the draft law to protect women from violence.

Human rights are Libya’s everyday essentials—the foundation for peace, stability, and a future where all Libyans live in dignity. UNSMIL will continue working alongside Libyan partners to make this vision a reality. Today, UNSMIL calls on all Libyan actors and international partners to reaffirm their commitment to human rights—not only in words but through concrete action. This means supporting accountability for violations, protecting civic space, and ensuring that every Libyan can fully enjoy the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration. Human rights must remain our compass, guiding Libya toward peace, justice, and a future where dignity is not a dream but a daily reality. UNSMIL stands ready to support Libya on this path.