Hisham Al-Harati, Legal Advisor for the “Zaykom Zina” Organization for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, wrote: “On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, while the world celebrates, in Libya, the day often becomes an occasion for fleeting sentimentality, filled with exaggerated expressions of empathy from officials and decision-makers. Sadly, these emotions are often insincere, fading as quickly as the day ends. The focus on disability rights is too often reduced to a single day, followed by the neglect of legal and human rights obligations for the rest of the year.
However, stepping away from this superficiality, it is important to highlight that under Libyan legislation, failure to enforce laws related to the rights of persons with disabilities constitutes a breach of public duty and is considered a criminal offense. Public officials who neglect their responsibilities, including implementing disability-related legislation, can be penalized under Libyan Penal Code. For example, Article 229 stipulates imprisonment for any public employee who neglects their official duties without a legitimate excuse, while Article 230 outlines penalties for misuse of authority or violation of laws and regulations.
Libya’s Law No. 5 of 1987 concerning persons with disabilities, alongside associated regulations and decisions, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (of which Libya is a signatory), set forth obligations to ensure the provision of necessary services and facilities for persons with disabilities. Failing to meet these obligations constitutes a legal violation warranting accountability.
In conclusion, it is our pleasure today to commend Waha Oil Company as an exemplary model in supporting and empowering its employees with disabilities. The company has approached disability as a humanitarian matter, adhering to legislation and adopting supportive policies to create an inclusive work environment. It ensures equal opportunities for employees with disabilities to perform their duties alongside others. Such commitment is a testament to justice, equality, and fairness, and it serves as a standard for all institutions to follow.”
