As part of the High National Elections Commission’s preparations for polling day in municipal councils, civil society organizations affiliated with the “Partners for Elections” program launched their awareness campaigns to encourage citizens on the importance of participating and casting their votes on polling day.
According to the Commission, “In coordination with the Libyan Women’s Union, Tripoli Branch, and the Students’ Union of the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Al-Jafara University, and in cooperation with the Al-Azizia Electoral Administration Office, the Students’ Union organized a field campaign to distribute brochures explaining the importance of voting on polling day in the municipalities of Amriya and Nasiriyah.”
According to the Commission’s statement, “The Community Partnership Organization, in cooperation with the Electoral Administration Office in the Four Districts, implemented extensive awareness campaigns in the municipalities of Qasr Ben Ghashir, Asbaia, Souq Al-Khamis, Al-Sayeh, and Al-Awata.” These campaigns included the distribution of motivational brochures and detailed explanations to urge citizens to actively participate in the elections. Likewise, the Sinmar Charitable Awareness Organization, in cooperation with the Awareness Coordinator at the Misrata Electoral Administration Office, organized campaigns to distribute guidance brochures about municipal council elections.”
In the south, “The Atta Al-Khair Foundation team organized a dialogue session in cooperation with the Ubari Electoral Management Office, with the participation of activists, the Youth Council and the region’s elders.” The team also carried out field campaigns to distribute leaflets on the roads and streets, to spread awareness of the importance of participating on voting day in the municipality of Tigrahi, the municipalities of the Murzuq Basin, and some municipalities in southern Libya,” according to the statement.
These activities come within the framework of inviting and motivating citizens, to ensure their participation in the municipal council elections scheduled for November 16, 2024.
Civil society organizations launch awareness campaigns to enhance participation in the 2024 municipal council elections as part of the Commission’s preparations…
Posted byHigh National Elections CommissionIn Tuesday, November 12, 2024
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Time.news Interview: Empowering Citizens through Awareness Campaigns in Libya
Interviewer (Editor of Time.news): Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re focusing on the significant steps being taken in Libya as the High National Elections Commission gears up for the upcoming municipal council elections. We have with us Dr. Fatima Abdelkarim, an expert in electoral processes and civic engagement. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Abdelkarim!
Dr. Fatima Abdelkarim: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss these critical developments in Libya.
Editor: To start, can you explain the role of civil society organizations in promoting civic engagement as we approach polling day?
Dr. Abdelkarim: Absolutely. Civil society organizations are crucial in bridging the gap between the government and the citizens. They help raise awareness about the electoral process and the importance of voting. In Libya, various organizations, including the “Partners for Elections” program, have launched awareness campaigns that aim to encourage citizens to understand their rights and participate actively in the elections.
Editor: That’s fascinating! I understand that these organizations partnered with local entities such as the Libyan Women’s Union and university student unions. How effective are these collaborations in reaching the broader community?
Dr. Abdelkarim: Collaborations like these are incredibly effective. By involving local entities, organizations can better tailor their messages to resonate with specific communities. For instance, the Students’ Union at Al-Jafara University has been instrumental in areas like Amriya and Nasiriyah, distributing brochures that specifically highlight the importance of voting. It also empowers younger voters, which is vital for the future of Libya’s democracy.
Editor: The campaigns you mentioned also include extensive awareness activities in various municipalities. Can you elaborate on some of the strategies used to ensure maximum outreach and engagement?
Dr. Abdelkarim: Certainly! Strategies range from field campaigns distributing motivational brochures to organizing dialogue sessions with community leaders. For example, the Atta Al-Khair Foundation conducted a dialogue session in Ubari involving activists and local elders. This not only disseminates information but also builds trust and integrates community perspectives, which can lead to greater voter turnout.
Editor: It sounds like a comprehensive approach. However, what challenges do these organizations face in encouraging voter participation in Libya?
Dr. Abdelkarim: One of the primary challenges is overcoming skepticism about the electoral process itself. Many citizens may feel disillusioned due to past experiences or political instability. Additionally, logistical issues can arise in distributing materials and engaging communities, particularly in remote or conflict-affected areas. Continual engagement and clear communication are essential in addressing these challenges.
Editor: That’s insightful. Given the context, how important do you think awareness campaigns will be for fostering a culture of participation in future elections?
Dr. Abdelkarim: Awareness campaigns are vital for developing a culture of participation. They not only inform citizens about the voting process but also instill a sense of civic duty. The more citizens understand the impact of their vote, the more likely they are to participate. This is crucial for the sustainability of democracy in Libya.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Abdelkarim, for your valuable insights. As we approach polling day, it’s apparent that these efforts from civil society organizations are paving the way for a more engaged electorate in Libya.
Dr. Abdelkarim: Thank you for having me! I hope to see a positive turnout in the upcoming elections, reflecting the hard work of everyone involved.
Editor: And thank you, readers, for tuning in to this important discussion. Let’s continue to support efforts that promote civic engagement and participation in democracies around the world.