The House of Representatives (HoR) Bureau concluded an extensive meeting yesterday dedicated to formulating a draft national law aimed at tackling violence against the family. The discussions were guided by the Arab Model Strategy for Protection from Domestic Violence, with a clear focus on ensuring the resulting legislation adheres to the principles of Islamic Sharia.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish two specialised committees: one tasked with drafting the proposed anti-family violence law, and another dedicated to reviewing and developing existing legislation about women’s and children’s rights. It was also decided to prepare for a scientific conference that will gather experts to support the anticipated legal drafting process.
Attendees focused their debate on several key issues, including proposals to amend certain personal status laws and the creation of a dedicated Family Court. Emphasis was also placed on the necessity of unifying the awareness and guidance efforts of the Ministries of Endowments, Education, Social Affairs, and Information. Participants further addressed the factors contributing to the escalation of domestic violence, including the influence of social media platforms, stressing the imperative to block abusive online content.
The session included the Head of the Women and Childhood Committee, Intisar Shannib, the Head of the Planning and Finance Committee, Dr Omar Tantoush, Women’s Affairs Committee member Fatima Al-Sweii, and the Head of the HoR Diwan, Abdullah Al-Masri Al-Fadhil. They were joined by the Ministers of State for Women’s Affairs, the Undersecretary of the Interior Ministry, the Head of the Libyan Media Corporation, and representatives from judicial and security bodies. These officials underscored the importance of updating legislation and strengthening protection mechanisms. Furthermore, the Interior Ministry reviewed measures already in place for the protection of women and children and addressing the issue of homelessness.