My Plan for Libya

Gender Empowerment

The changes that were heralded, were in large part started and sustained through the strength of Libyan woman. The future stability and prosperity of Libya requires a similar level of social cohesion that will be difficult to achieve if women are excluded from economic, social, and political roles. As caretakers of Libya’s future, we must examine laws, political processes, and labor market and educational policies to ensure that women can thrive and participate equally in Libya’s transformation journey.

Youth Empowerment

Youth under the age of 35 make up the majority of the population. Addressing issues facing Libya’s youth is crucial to ensuring reconciliation and responding to the challenges that face our country. Access to education, healthcare and social services, employment opportunities, and awareness of our cultural heritage are critical for enabling our youth to realize their full potential. Youth must also be engaged in political and civic discourse to ensure they take ownership of the future that they will be tasked with leading.

Veteran Inclusion

During 2011 and after, thousands of men and women have selflessly risked their lives. Political rhetoric that has stressed respect for martyrs and expressed concern for those injured has not led to the support veterans need to overcome the physical and psychological injuries they sustained during the conflict. The significant contributions made by Libyan veterans necessitate that we ensure they have access to healthcare, education, and career transition assistance. However, Libya lacks sufficiently trained social and healthcare specialists who can accommodate the medical needs of veterans to help them reintegrate back into society and reenter employment. Research and advocacy must also be used to educate the public about the value of veterans’ contribution to society and assert their rights.

Disability Rights

As a country that had to endure conflict to secure its future, Libya must ensure equitable economic, political, and social opportunities for its citizens who suffer from disabilities. Our struggle for socio-economic and democratic transformation has unfortunately led to widespread impairments such as loss of limbs, loss of sight, psychological trauma, and other disabilities. In some nations, the disabled are socially stigmatized and suffer from public misconceptions on their capabilities. As a nation, we must work towards overcoming societal, physical, and infrastructural barriers that prevent the disabled from living long and productive lives.

MY RECORD THUS FAR

• Libya needs a youth policy focused on civic engagement, democratic participation, and community involvement
• Aref Nayed emphasizes the need for better education and training and economic diversification to solve Libya’s youth unemployment challenge
• An equal role for women in Libyan political, economic, and social life
• Aref Nayed has a vision of a future Libya that is a unified and proud nation with common goals, a shared heritage, national pride, and a commitment to stability
• An immediate focus on human development is essential to national progress and overcoming Libya’s current challenges
• Stability must be achieved while addressing key economic, human development, and government challenges in parallel
• Every young Libyan has the right to get an advanced education. We will give them all the opportunities and various options.

Support Aref’s Plan for Providing Equal Opportunity for All

Aref Nayed believes that all Libyans — regardless of gender, age, disability, origin, or language — should have equal opportunities to succeed. Add your name to support Aref Nayed’s plan to move Libya forward by achieving full equality for all Libyans.