Page 52 - Lybia Flipbook

Between Tradition and Modernity: Women’s Contribution to Society
While visitors are often perplexed
by the scarcity of women in public leadership positions, the strength of women’s influence in Libyan society is often underestimated. Equally underestimated is the diversity of views on this issue among Libyan women themselves, with some desiring greater prominence and others being content with a more traditional role. The familiar joke below sheds a bit of light on women’s role and the relationship between men and women:
“How is it that you never fight with your wife?” asked the soon-to-be married nephew to his uncle.
“Ah, that is easy. We agreed that she decides on all the small things, and I decide on all the big things.”
“I don’t understand; what kind of things does she decide?” replied the nephew.
“Oh, she decides on things like what house we buy, which food we eat, where the kids go to school, who gets married to whom, and when we go out. Those kinds of things.” “Ok. But then what is left for you to decide on?”
“Well, I give my opinion on things like world politics, what is happening in the government, and the problems with electricity. You know, big important things.3”
While this joke exaggerates, it demonstrates that women in Libya are not without agency. The place of women in Libyan society has been in constant flux. During the 2011 uprising, women’s visibility became much more pronounced, and there was a surge of voices asking for greater gender equality. The spirit of change prevailing in the country called for a more open and fairer society, and the prominent roles played by women
in the upheaval showed they deserved equal treatment. The newly drafted Constitutional Declaration, issued soon after the consolidation of power, stated confidently that all Libyans, male and female, are equal before the law, enjoy equal civil and political rights, should have the same opportunities in all areas, and are subject to the same public duties and obligations.
With the ban on civil society lifted, political participation and activism increased, with both men and women actively taking part in non-government organizations. High voter turnout rates during the 2012 and 2014 elections underscored Libyans’ desire for political representation and change. But revolutions do not erase long-held cultural norms. Boasting nearly half of the candidates in both the 2012 and 2014 elections, women won 16.5 percent of the seats.
invigorated the cultural norm whereby men are expected to be the protectors of women. Within this atmosphere, women were inclined to stay inside the home because any movement outside could be risky. Although such restrictions tended to relax as security improved, the need to protect has been used as a justification for control. This is the case for some militias, which restrict women’s movement posing as women’s protectors to legitimize their presence.
Uncertainty and a sense of powerlessness over the political and economic situation can increase a person’s need for social structures to be firm and lead to increased social control. So, while the conflict allowed women to step out of their traditional roles and demonstrate their potential, it also hardened preconceptions of
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A rise of Islamic-oriented groups
in the political landscape and the
increased influence of armed militias
led soon to a backlash. A spate of
assassinations and intimidations
dramatically increased the cost of
equal rights advocacy. Leading civil
society and political proponents,
including Salwa Bugaighis, Intisar al-Hassairi, Nasib Miloud Karfana, Hanan al Barassi, Fariha al-Barkawi, and Siham Sergiwa were killed or forcibly disappeared. None of the perpetrators was ever brought to justice.
The increasing insecurity across the country restricted the space in which women could operate. It also
“I appreciate people’s intimacy and closeness
in times of sadness and crises, and their sticking to customs and traditions.” Fatima, 30 years
women’s roles as communities tried to generate a sense of stability. This tension led to inconsistent legal and policy decisions. For instance, in the same year as women’s equality was enshrined in the constitution, the requirement for men to seek their first wife’s consent before marrying a second time was abolished. And while
more women are seen driving cars, some authorities attempt to enforce laws requiring them to travel with male chaperons, known as mahrams.
Paradoxically, the economic consequences of the prolonged political uncertainty have opened unexpected venues for women to participate in economic life. Over