The International Humanitarian Law (IHL)/ International Human Rights Law (IHRL) Working Group of the Berlin Process held a meeting in Tripoli on Monday to discuss respect for fundamental rights in Libya, including freedom of expression and political participation.
The session featured the participation of President Muhammed Menfi of the Presidential Council (PC), his two deputies, the minister of justice, and the head of the UN mission in Libya.
Representatives of member states of the Berlin Process also joined the meeting, including the Swiss Deputy Foreign Minister Simon Jesbüller and Ambassador for Human Rights in the Netherlands, Bahia Tahzeeb Lee, besides a group of officials and ambassadors accredited to Libya.
In his opening speech, Menfi affirmed the PC's support for human rights and civil society activists, politicians, and journalists, subject to respect the values of Islam and the long-standing traditions of society "that uphold the values of human rights."
He noted his rejection of any assault, kidnapping, enforced disappearance, or arbitrary detention against this segment.
Menfi also reiterated the right of about three million registered voters to choose their leaders in free and transparent elections.
On his part, the UN Envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily, urged support for the Libyan authorities and institutions, which he said were ready to move the country towards a better and more stable future.
Bathily lauded the work of the UN Support Mission In Libya (UNSMIL) and all international and Libyan efforts as he thanked the PC for hosting the meeting of the Working Group.
The UN official called on the group to ensure that all Libyans contribute to building the future of their country effectively through respect for human rights and international humanitarian law.
The activities of the four Berlin tracks will take place on Libyan soil, under the auspices of the Presidential Council, and with the participation of all Libyan stakeholders to consolidate the Libyan national ownership, Bathily said.
In conclusion, the group signed a declaration of intent to enhance joint action in international humanitarian law and the human rights field.
