Challenges Faced by Disabled Women in Benghazi and Al-Bayda, Libya: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

This study looks at the cultural, social, and legislative issues related to the experiences of disabled women in Libya, specifically in the cities of Benghazi and Al-Bayda. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study explores the many barriers to the full integration of women with disabilities into society. Data were gathered using quantitative and qualitative methods, including formal questionnaires and direct involvement via social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook. The sample was purposefully chosen to include women with a variety of disabilities between the ages of 18 and 33 and over, guaranteeing a complete representation of the target community. The findings indicate substantial impediments, such as social stigma, cultural prejudices, and legislative deficiencies, that prevent impaired women from attaining their goals and getting critical social assistance. The study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and implementing inclusive policies to empower disadvantaged women, calling for a cultural shift toward greater empathy and support for their rights and integration. By addressing these issues, the study aims to contribute to the development of more effective strategies and interventions for empowering impaired women in Libya.

Headnote

Abstract

This study looks at the cultural, social, and legislative issues related to the experiences of disabled women in Libya, specifically in the cities of Benghazi and Al-Bayda. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study explores the many barriers to the full integration of women with disabilities into society. Data were gathered using quantitative and qualitative methods, including formal questionnaires and direct involvement via social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook. The sample was purposefully chosen to include women with a variety of disabilities between the ages of 18 and 33 and over, guaranteeing a complete representation of the target community. The findings indicate substantial impediments, such as social stigma, cultural prejudices, and legislative deficiencies, that prevent impaired women from attaining their goals and getting critical social assistance. The study emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and implementing inclusive policies to empower disadvantaged women, calling for a cultural shift toward greater empathy and support for their rights and integration. By addressing these issues, the study aims to contribute to the development of more effective strategies and interventions for empowering impaired women in Libya.

Keywords: Disabled women, Libya, Cultural challenges, Social obstacles, Legislative difficulties

Introduction

In 1975, the United Nations adopted a policy of recognizing the rights of persons with disabilities and proclaimed 1981 as the International Year of Disabled Persons (IYDP). This was a continuation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, laying out specific goals about people with disabilities (PWD): increasing public awareness, promoting understanding and acceptance, encouraging the formation of organizations by and for PWD, ensuring equal opportunities, and emphasizing rehabilitation and disability prevention Thus, the UN articulated that persons with disabilities have rights like non-disabled individuals in society and the decade for the promotion of PWD was adopted from 1983-1992. Since 1993 the rules of equality of opportunity for disabled people with non-disabled people were adopted. After the 1975 Declaration referred to above, which affirmed the right of the disabled to education and vocational training, the interest of Western countries in the category of people with disabilities increased.

The historical development of the system of care and sponsorship for people with disabilities, which was sparked by industrial development, changing mentalities, and the increasing activities of associations defending their rights, has created a rupture in sponsorship policies in most countries. Thus, efforts regarding people with disabilities were to help them adapt rather than integrate into the social milieu without discrimination. The matter gradually increased to include various groups of people with disabilities, and the matter reached low to middle-income countries as they began to aspire to greater legal, cultural, and societal protection for the disabled. We are not exaggerating when we say that many low-income countries seek to overcome many of these obstacles. The protection of women and girls with disabilities complicates the process because of existing barriers and stereotypes for all women and girls. It is stated in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in – Article 6 Women with Disabilities that:

Nations acknowledge that women facing disabilities experience intersecting forms of discrimination, and commit to taking measures ensuring their full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Nations pledge to implement appropriate measures fostering the complete development, progress, and empowerment of women, aiming to secure their exercise and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms as outlined in the Convention.

In Africa, women with disabilities bear a compounded burden of discrimination due to their age, gender, and disability. Globally, people with disabilities comprise approximately 15% of the population, totaling one billion individuals with 80% residing in low to mid-income nations. Women constitute over half of this demographic, and almost 20% of women have a disability. Women exhibit a higher prevalence of disability at 19.2% compared to men at 12%. Globally, women with disabilities face greater challenges accessing healthcare, education, employment, and internet usage compared to men with disabilities.

Despite challenges, women with disabilities actively participated in events like the African Union Beijing+25 in October 2019 to advocate for their rights. They demanded equal opportunities to contribute to society, inclusive policies enabling their development, meaningful involvement in policy-making processes on disability, gender equality, and other crucial areas, as well as representation in political processes at national, regional, and international levels. This call for action emphasized the need for governments to uphold commitments outlined in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and to ensure the meaningful inclusion of women with disabilities in policy development and implementation. Additionally, it urged the collection of up-to-date data and statistics on this demographic for effective policy-making and representation within governmental and intergovernmental bodies (United Nations, 2007).

Research Problems

Many Third World countries, Africa in particular, do not have many care and education programs for people with disabilities in general; in Libya, the matter is somewhat different from other African countries because the Libyan state possesses an important resource, which is oil, which lifted it out of poverty in the 1960s. In the twentieth century, significant steps were made in expanding education for both genders, building universities and educational institutions in various countries, including remote regions. Social services were also provided to many groups in need of them, including social services for people with disabilities. But here we must focus on a group of obstacles that could cause obstacles for disabled women obtaining their rights or achieving what they wish to achieve. These obstacles are social, legal, and legislative in addition to t cultural. Their society must help them achieve their hopes and desires without making them feel that they are useless. For instance, the UNHCR (2013) warns that individuals with impairments may be disregarded unless they are expressly addressed. This study combines data from credible sources to highlight the realities of persons with disabilities in Libya. Notably, these individuals' viewpoints are almost absent. Future studies should focus on the local context and elevate the perspectives and insights of persons with disabilities in Libya. Such research should take a collaborative approach to design, execution, analysis, and dissemination. Without attempts to understand their needs and ambitions, the focus will stay on medical rather than social models of disability (Cusick & El Sahly, 2018).

Society and its Cultural Shame Surrounding Disability

The way society perceives and treats people with disabilities has a tremendous impact on their lives and chances. Cultural attitudes about disability can vary from acceptance and support to misunderstanding and prejudice. Many cultures continue to stigmatize and marginalize people with impairments (Scior, 2011). This stigma is strongly embedded in societal standards, religious beliefs, and historical circumstances, making it difficult to shift perceptions and attitudes.

This research will focus on recognizing and comprehending the various challenges and obstacles that people with disabilities confront as a result of societal and cultural stigmas. We will examine how these stigmas affect their self-esteem, mental health, and overall quality of life. By investigating social and cultural barriers, we want to reveal the underlying causes of the shame and discrimination that often accompany disability (Corrigan et al., 2014). As per Al Gharaibeh's (2008) findings, daughters of jailed individuals experience stigmatization more frequently and intensely than their boys. This unequal treatment highlights the gendered aspect of public perceptions of the families of the incarcerated, especially regarding daughters who suffer the most from prejudice. According to Al Gharaibeh (2008), daughters of criminals face shame more often and more fiercely than their sons. This unfair treatment emphasizes how the public's opinions of detained families are gendered with daughters being the target of social discrimination.

Focus on the Challenges and Obstacles

As a result, the research will focus on the special problems, barriers, and social, cultural, and legal issues that people with disabilities face. These obstacles can greatly impede their capacity to fulfill personal goals and obtain critical social services. For example, social stigma can result in exclusion from educational opportunities, jobs, and community activities that are critical for personal and professional growth (Goffman, 1963).

We will examine the legal frameworks designed to protect the rights of people with disabilities, evaluating their effectiveness and identifying gaps in implementation. Cultural obstacles frequently prevent people from obtaining the assistance they require, either out of fear of being judged or a lack of information about available services (Shakespeare, 2006). By highlighting these difficulties, we hope to provide a thorough knowledge of how these factors work together to limit people with disabilities' ability to have satisfying lives.

Empathy & Inclusion

My ultimate goal is to highlight the significance of fostering an inclusive society in which women with disabilities feel appreciated, supported and cared for. We aim to build empathy and understanding in the larger society by addressing negative stereotypes and advocating for positive change (Link & Phelan, 2001). By bringing these concerns to light, we seek to inspire policymakers, service providers, and the general public to take real steps to enhance the delivery of social services to women with disabilities.

Through my study, we hope to provide actionable insights and ideas that will help to establish a more inclusive society. This includes both increasing access to critical services and ensuring that women with disabilities feel appreciated and understood in their daily lives. By addressing the core causes of social and cultural stigmas, we may work toward a future in which everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to pursue their goals and live with dignity (WHO, 2011).

Libya is one of the countries with ethical legislation focused on protecting the rights of people with disabilities. However, this enabling framework has primarily been theoretical rather than practical. In actuality, Libyan society shows little support for those with disabilities, especially women. Many people with disabilities are often ignored in their communities with parents usually feeling humiliated to include their impaired children in social activities. Individuals with impairments are regarded to face significant difficulties in integrating into Libyan social life. Therefore, this can raise awareness among Libyans and encourage active engagement of people with disabilities alongside those without impairments in daily interactions. As a result, non disabled people can campaign for the rights of the disabled, who, as Libyan citizens, deserve to have fulfilling lives and be treated with dignity (Crabtree & Williams, 2011 as cited in Abulhul, 2020).

In some societies, tradition often holds precedence, sometimes even above religion. In Libya, many individuals, both men and women, adhere closely to these traditional values. Gender roles are strictly delineated with men typically employed outside the home while women are expected to fulfill domestic duties such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare. If a woman does pursue employment, it is commonly understood that her job should not interfere with her domestic responsibilities. As a result, teaching is a prevalent occupation for women as it aligns with societal expectations without conflict (El Sanousi et al., 2016). Further, in Libyan society, women experience considerable pressure to fulfill multiple social roles, a tradition that has persisted across generations with little indication of change. These roles, perceived as paramount, demand women to excel simultaneously as wives, mothers, daughters, daughters-in-law, nieces, and friends, leaving limited time and focus for pursuing professional ambitions.

While there have been positive advancements in the roles and opportunities for women in Libya, such as improvements in education, professional engagement, and community involvement, challenges persist. Despite constitutional rights enhancements and increased political participation, Libyan women continue to confront complex, discriminatory, and deeply entrenched patriarchal obstacles in familial, educational, occupational, and societal spheres. Despite their significant capabilities, women's civic and political engagement remains constrained. Predominant conservative and authoritarian masculine values, exacerbated by recent events and conflicts, pose significant challenges for women in Libya today. These challenges manifest in limited civic and political participation among women and weak support from civil society organizations dedicated to gender equality and women's empowerment. Additionally, women grapple with the pervasive issues of violence, conflict, and the deepening economic crisis.

Culture encompasses shared values, beliefs, norms, worldviews and practices passed down through generations, distinguishing one society from another. Many researchers have sought to understand how cultures shape attitudes, both in terms of similarities and differences among human beings, by observing its impact on individual behavior. Certain studies indicate that mid to high-income countries generally exhibit more favorable attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disabilities compared to mid to low-income nations, while others suggest that Western countries tend to hold more positive views towards people with intellectual disabilities than in the East. (Benomir et al, 2016)

Caring for women with disabilities and facilitating their integration into society constitutes a vital social system aimed at preparing and adapting them personally, psychologically, and socially. This process involves employing various means, institutions, and devices to effectively address their physical, mental, psychological, social, and moral needs thus enabling them to become active members of society. Within society, disabled women can and should coexist within their social environments and strive to achieve predetermined goals.

Despite Libya's societal context mirroring that of many developing, disabled women without disabilities encounter significant social, cultural, and legal barriers. These obstacles hinder their integration into various social care institutions aimed at rehabilitation and alleviating their suffering. In light of this, it is evident that disabled women face multifaceted challenges in Libya and other similar societies. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity, thereby fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of ability or gender. Consequently, due to these societal norms, many Libyans pity families who rear children with disabilities and look upon them with somewhat shameful feelings. As a result, families may try to keep their children at home and teach them social skills before they are integrated into society. They believe that isolation preserves the family's reputation and prevents negative feelings (Crabtree & Williams, 2011). Furthermore, many parents believe that individuals with disabilities cannot be independent. Many parents also believe that they can provide the best conditions for their children at home and that they know what is best for their children. Thus, they make decisions on behalf of their children without consulting them in any way (Saad & Beszta, 2019). Therefore, this leads some individuals with disabilities to voluntarily accept segregation, while others feel that they are forcibly prevented from having a social life." (Abulhul, 2023)

Literature Review

In general, people with disabilities of all genders suffer from many difficulties in obtaining education; children with physical and mental disabilities have had difficulties accessing any form of education, facing discrimination in school, and are often completely excluded from the formal education system (UNICEF, 2018).

Nationwide, in 2012, the Ministry of Education (MoE) assessment found a "strikingly low" proportion of students with disabilities, with only 4% of schools with provisions for students with special needs. However, there was a better provision for students with special needs in the urbanized north (Libya Ministry of Education 2019) MoE p. 10). The total number of disabled people in Libyan society reached approximately 106,406, of which men represent the largest percentage at 69,609, and women at 36,797 (General Authority of the Social Solidarity Fund, 2018). Perhaps the difference becomes more understandable as men outnumber women two to one, and this is due to cases of disability in men resulting from military service in the civil war that has afflicted the country since 2011.

Despite the seminars, discussions, and conferences organized concerning care for people with disabilities together with laws and regulations affirming their rights in society, care for people with Intellectual Disabilities in Libya is still not sufficient and remains practiced in the same manner that prevailed a hundred years ago in mid to high-income countries; namely a segregated system merely providing care in separate institutions (Benomir et al, 2016). The evidence that does exist is, for the most part, fragmented and often anecdotal. It does, however, suggest that in general trends in low to mid-income countries are very similar to those in more industrialized countries. However, conditions in mid to low-income countries are likely to be worse and considerably more prejudicial to people with disabilities, especially women with disabilities. This is likely to be the case for a variety of reasons, including higher rates of poverty and unemployment, pervasive deficits in services and social security, environmental and social conditions that are not conducive to health, and political, and cultural limitations on human rights and especially women's rights. For example, Emmett and Alant (2006) focused exclusively on the relationship between disability and gender in industrialized countries, particularly the United States. The reason for this is that very little hard data exists on disability trends in low to mid-income countries.

An intersectional approach was utilized to investigate the societal stereotypes and biases against disabled women, and how these impact their self-perception and gender identity. The study involved ten women aged 22 to 35 representing the major ethnic groups in Kwazulu-Natal province, South Africa (White, Indian, Coloured, African). Data were gathered through comprehensive face-to-face interviews. Results indicated that disabled women face marginalization and encounter triple jeopardy due to their gender, disability, and the context of being in a developing nation. Social stereotypes, discrimination, and biases adversely affect their self-esteem, gender identity, and economic independence (Muthukrishna et al., 2009)

Similarly, the experiences of women with disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa were examined, concluding that they encounter intersecting discrimination based on both gender and disability. The review analyzed various documents to provide insights into the lives of these women and discussed strategies for enhancing their circumstances. It highlighted the numerous social barriers women with disabilities encounter in community participation and daily activities at home. The study identified several thematic areas representing different aspects of social life and also explored the social model of disability theory from the perspective of women.

Moreover, the research underscored the skewed focus of development initiatives concerning disability and advocated for greater inclusion of women with disabilities in mainstream development discussions. It emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of development strategies to align with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the mention of disability issues in Agenda 2030. (Ekblom & Thomsson, 2018)

In addition, Thomas and Chandra (2019) highlighted the pervasive issue of discrimination faced by both men and women. However, women who have disabilities face compounded challenges, not solely due to their disability, but also because of their identity as disabled women. Examining these issues within the context of religion and culture holds significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, it encourages original research to explore the connections between religion, culture, and their practices. Secondly, it sheds light on the beliefs and perceptions regarding disability within the broader societal framework of religion and culture, drawing attention not only to specific beliefs and attitudes but also to the individuals affected by them. Many religions exhibit negative views towards disability, sometimes viewing it as a condition that can be 'cured' through faith in a higher power (Thomas & Chandra, 2019)

Further, in Africa, women with disabilities face ongoing marginalization and encounter difficulties in asserting their inherent human rights as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. This study delves into the lived experiences of women with disabilities holding leadership positions within Disabled People's Organizations (DPOs) in Zimbabwe. Eight women leaders with disabilities from DPOs in Harare and Bulawayo were interviewed over three months in 2011 for this investigation. The article focuses on the central themes that emerged from these interviews. Through the examination of their challenges and experiences, it becomes evident that the interaction between disability and culture presents complex intersections, wherein patriarchy and gendered power dynamics play significant roles in shaping their leadership roles. The findings suggest that patriarchal norms continue to impede the full participation of women in leadership positions within DPOs in Zimbabwe, reflecting a broader global trend. The implications for the exercise of leadership by women with disabilities actively involved in the disability rights movement are also explored (Majiet & Africa, 2015). Therefore, in this research, which represents an exploratory study, we will address the difficulties and challenges facing disabled women by submitting a questionnaire that includes inquiries about the social, cultural, legislative, and legal obstacles facing disabled women in Libyan society.

Research Objectives and Questions

This study aims to identify the total challenges and obstacles facing women with disabilities in Libya. Some of the objectives branch out from this main goal, which we mention as follows:

1. Identify the challenges and social obstacles that women with disabilities face in society in exchange for achieving their desires to be treated equally with non disabled women.

2. Identify the cultural difficulties and challenges facing disabled women in society,

3. Identify the legal and legislative difficulties and challenges facing disabled women and obtain, under the law, the services that were approved under the Disabled Persons Law.

To achieve these goals, the study raises the following questions:

a. What are the social obstacles facing disabled women?

b. What are the cultural obstacles disabled women face limiting their capacity to integrate into society?

c. Do Libyan disabled women face legal challenges and obstacles to protect their rights to live as any other non-disabled woman?

Methodology

Descriptive research is an exploratory research strategy that helps researchers describe a population, situation, or phenomenon. It is valuable for addressing queries such as what, where, when, and how, but does not explain. This method does not manipulate the study variables and is not intended to establish cause-and-effect linkages (Shields & Rangarjan, 2013). Instead, descriptive research paints a detailed and accurate picture of the subject under investigation, providing for a thorough grasp of its qualities and the context in which it exists. By focusing on the visible characteristics of the research issue, descriptive research contributes to the establishment of a firm foundation for subsequent, more extensive inquiries into causal links. The study relied on a descriptive approach, which is a method of studying phenomena or research problems by scientifically describing them and subsequently arriving at logical explanations supported by evidence. This approach allows researchers to establish specific frameworks for the problem, aiding in determining research outcomes. Descriptive methodology is particularly suitable for understanding social reality as it serves as the initial step towards comprehensively grasping the subject of study. By meticulously monitoring and documenting phenomena or events over a specified period, researchers can identify underlying circumstances and factors, thus enhancing understanding of the present and enabling predictions (Dashley, 2016 61). This approach encompasses both qualitative and quantitative aspects, capturing external behaviors through qualitative description and numerical data through quantitative description. It also facilitates comparisons across different contexts. Various tools and techniques, such as questionnaires, observations, and interviews, are employed to gather data relevant to the study problem (Salem, 2021).

In this study, we employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary data regarding the sample, including age, educational level, and type of disability, were collected through structured questionnaire forms. Additionally, we elicited direct responses from participants regarding the social, cultural, and legal challenges they face. The data collection methods included direct communication and engagement through social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook. As for the research population and sample, the population comprises women with disabilities in Libya facing social, cultural, and legal challenges. The sample consisted of a subset of this population selected through various means such as convenience sampling or purposive sampling, depending on the availability and accessibility of participants. The criteria for inclusion in the sample may have included factors like age, type of disability, and willingness to participate. Through direct engagement with the sample, the researcher gained insights into the specific challenges encountered by disabled women in Libyan society.

Results and Discussion

Choosing a representative sample is crucial to ensure that the study results are generalizable to the population being studied. Therefore, we aimed to select a random sample that accurately represents or is very close to accurately representing this group.

This study seeks to examine a large demographic, specifically focusing on women with disabilities in the cities of Benghazi and Al-Bayda, located in northeastern Libya. To select the research sample, we contacted several institutions and associations concerned with the affairs of the disabled, as shown in the attached table. My initial inquiry involved understanding all the challenges that disabled women face in society. Since the main goal of this study is to identify the cultural, social, and legal challenges facing disabled women, I framed the questions accordingly and collected numerous responses. Based on these responses, we developed the questionnaire that was later distributed to the study sample.

We opted for a purposive sampling method, which we believe closely represents social reality and can be contacted quickly. Most of these women are associated with institutions for the disabled or have indirect relationships with these institutions.

Due to severe stigma and societal neglect, we faced obstacles in including disabled women in the study. The sample for this study was selected based on specific criteria to ensure accurate representation and relevance. Participants were women with disabilities residing in the cities of Benghazi and Al-Bayda, and they were chosen for their significant populations and the presence of numerous support institutions. The sample included individuals with various types of disabilities within a specific age range, from childhood to young adulthood to capture a broad spectrum of experiences. Engagement with disability support institutions was a key criterion as these participants are more likely to provide detailed insights into their challenges. Additionally, only those willing to participate voluntarily were included, ensuring ethical standards. The selection was facilitated through convenience and purposive sampling methods to efficiently gather data from accessible and relevant participants.

These are statistics for the disabled in 2020 for the disabled in Libya according to the statistics of the Social Solidarity Fund., There are a total of 118,655 disabled persons with women accounting for 44,587 or 37.6%. . This is because men outnumber women in terms of general population and of the disabled population due to military service and civil violence since 2011.

Further, this statistic is not entirely accurate due to important considerations including that many families do not like to acknowledge disability, are in a state of denial, or are unaware of services so they do register their family member with disabilities in social care institutions.. As well as the inaccuracy of these statistics, these data and figures for the disabled date at the end of 2018 and only for the western part of the country whereas the numbers for the eastern part of Libya date at the end of 2014.

It is clearly noted from Table 3 that 76.3% of disabled women are not married. This is because of their disabilities which are generally rejected by society. On the other hand, 68.1% of disabled women are unemployed, which is not accepted by the organizations. 46.7% represents the mobility disability, which constitutes a significant percentage among the other cases. It should be considered that the table showed that 31.1% of disabled women obtained their university education. This is an indication that disabled women have the right to education despite more difficulties.

Denied freedom to manage their entitled allowance under the law, with many disabled women reporting that their guardian, whether a father or brother, takes control of their disability benefits. This represented 45% of the sample. These hurdles are a significant factor in inhibiting the integration of disabled women into society, hindering their aspirations and equal rights and posing difficult challenges for them in forging their future paths.

My research sample was drawn from two cities in Libya, one representing the second largest city and the other possibly ranking fifth or sixth in terms of population. This underscores the significant challenges faced by disabled women in these cities, as reported by them. On the other hand, smaller towns, villages, and remote regions suffer from a lack of social, educational, and other essential public services that women with special needs require.

Disability and gender are intersecting social constructs exacerbated by stereotypes leading to structural discrimination, especially against women. We do not refer to the mere addition of different forms of discrimination but the creation of new situations of discrimination that result in many possible forms of intersections between different factors (social, economic, political, cultural, and symbolic) that determine a person's life. (UNPRPD & UN Women,2021).

Foregrounding the voices of women with disabilities is critical if we are to include their knowledge in ways that tackle institutional exclusion. We do not suggest that this approach can negate or reverse their exclusion from complex social, political, and educational arenas; however, we argue that participatory visual research does have the potential to engage women with disabilities in the claiming of their inclusion through a more transformative approach to social justice. This politics of engagement-how women with disabilities engaged in constructing their knowledge and negotiating power through their production of visual artifacts-offers a standpoint for rethinking inclusion and exclusion in relation to disability and gender in the context of social change in the Global South. (Nguyen, 2016)

Not only women with disabilities but all individuals with disabilities in Libya need access to services that provide educational, social, and health services. girls and women, but the entire disabled community in Libya needs special care, and we are not exaggerating when we say that even ordinary people need a lot of facilitation of educational, social, and health services.

People with disabilities in Libya need a stable and secure community; visibility in reporting, planning, and evaluation of services that are inclusive in design and delivery; and measures, technical definitions, and socio-cultural understandings of disability that value function, activity, and participation in everyday life. Also critical is addressing medical conditions and impairments with expert treatment. These actions will help provide people with disabilities in Libya find opportunities to actively contribute to rebuilding their communities in a post-conflict future.

Conclusions and Recommendations

We have yet to come across a study in Libyan society that has examined this significant issue of women with disabilities from these many angles. This may be the first study to delve into the cultural, social, and legal difficulties faced by disabled women in Libyan society. We can confirm that this study is based on data obtained from my research sample of 270 women who responded to the questionnaire. We can classify the problems facing disabled women as follows.

Social Challenges and Obstacles

● Lack of family concern for disabled women's situation, insufficient time and encouragement given to them, and often a lack of understanding from the family.

● Disabled women also assert that the lack of understanding from the surrounding social environment, and their families' perception of their situation as something to be accepted without further ado, discourages them from seeking care facilities or rehabilitation centers. This often leads to feelings of shame or pity from their families, especially when accompanying their disabled daughters to public places to assert their rights.

● Some disabled women reported that they found resistance from their families as a result of not creating the appropriate environment for rehabilitation and also the lack of appropriate training programs for women with disabilities. This prevents the children of these women from engaging in work.

Additionally, disabled women face challenges in continuing their education, as most institutions lack adequate facilities suitable for their needs, leading to a reluctance to pursue further education.

Further, societal perceptions towards disabled women predominantly oscillate between a sympathetic view and one of futility or even shame. These obstacles were acknowledged by 33% of the sample. These challenges manifest in various ways.

Cultural Challenges and Barriers

● Exploitation of women with disabilities by parents or spouses due to a lack of explicit legal protection.

● Limited opportunities for disabled women to hold positions of decision-making or participate in public affairs, dictated by customs and traditions.

● Resistance from families against women with disabilities pursuing higher education or marriage.

● Social isolation and neglect, lack of social adaptation, irregular health check-ups, and reluctance to visit rehabilitation centers.

● Lack of psychological and social support for disabled women from others.

● Erroneous social upbringing, either through excessive pampering or harsh treatment, and a lack of internal and external rehabilitation courses.

● Difficulty in finding employment and exposure to verbal abuse, lead to various psychological issues such as depression and low self-esteem.

● Very few have access to their own vehicles, with some cases where the father or brother benefits from the car for personal use, failing to teach a woman with a disability to use the vehicle independently.

Among the most significant obstacles faced by disabled women in Libya are legal challenges, representing a major burden that deprives them of their right to live a decent life, enough to suffice their needs. This was represented by 45% of the respondents.

Legal Challenges

● Many instances where the law is not binding in providing for the specific needs of disabled women, with numerous governmental and private entities failing to adhere to disability laws.

● Urgent need for amendments to disability laws to ensure the provision of appropriate aids and protection.

● Legal shortcomings in encouraging entrepreneurial ventures for women with disabilities.

● State neglect towards unemployment, lack of detailed databases on individuals with disabilities, and a lack of studies on issues faced by disabled women fail to obtain accurate and real numbers in most cases.

● Lack of legal mandates for private companies to respect the needs of disabled individuals, such as providing wheelchair ramps or elevators to facilitate mobility in public places.

Therefore, society, represented by the government, institutions, and family, must provide the greatest levels of support to people with disabilities, especially women in our society in general, and help them face all the challenges that stand in their way.

Accordingly, this study recommends the following:

● Educating people with disabilities, especially women, about the rights guaranteed to them by law, developing their legal knowledge, and developing their demands in a way that suits their needs.

● Providing appropriate health care for women with disabilities, and facilitating their access to the necessary devices and tools to facilitate their daily lives as much as possible.

● Spreading awareness in society and introducing people to these people and their special lifestyle, the necessity of taking care of them, respecting their rights and how to deal with them, and avoiding showing a bad reaction when looking at them or dealing with them so as not to make them feel embarrassed or lacking in self-esteem.

● Spreading the culture of always asking questions before assisting people with disabilities, especially women. Even if a person suffers from a specific disability, this does not necessarily mean that he needs or wants your help.

● Encouraging women with disabilities to engage in society and life, enhancing their confidence, trying to take care of them to discover their strengths, motivating them to show their talents, and dealing with them as ordinary people are treated.

● Preparing plans to employ women with disabilities, and urging companies and institutions to make a great effort to employ them in appropriate jobs and leadership positions.

● Updating the infrastructure and facilities to make them more suitable and accommodating for people with disabilities, especially women, by adding stairs, widening entrances, and ensuring access to bathrooms, and other social and administrative services centers.

● Providing the possibility to do some recreational activities that help women with disabilities entertain themselves, enjoy and learn new sports, and work to integrate them more with the surrounding cultural and social environment.

Future Research

Research and literary heritage abound with numerous studies and writings that analyze the prevailing masculine culture in Arab society and its continuous effects, dating back over a century. This issue of culture occupies a prominent place among the challenges many studies face in low to mid-income countries, indicating two important aspects

Firstly, the rootedness and reinforcement of this culture in the Arab mentality, make it resistant to change despite decades of development, modernization, and social transformation, as well as progress and achievements in women's rights. This confirms the argument presented by many sociologists that material change is often easier and faster to achieve than cultural change.

Secondly, there is a need to reassess the mechanisms of social and cultural change, as indicated by the results of the study, which reflect the constraints imposed on women's freedom to make decisions regarding various aspects of their lives, from daily activities such as social upbringing to crucial matters such as marriage choices, continuing education, or obtaining employment. These constraints are a natural result of the prevailing culture dominated by males in Libyan society.

Therefore, one can see the need for studies to continue in greater depth and ongoing research into the reasons and factors that hinder women with disabilities from achieving their goals and integrating into society, to develop a mechanism for a strategic vision that will benefit the community.

Acknowledgements

This article is fully prepared by the author without any assistance from AI.

Footnote

1 Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Kalba University, UAE.

References

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