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Nearly 15 years following the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, Libya remains in a state of division, characterized by two competing administrations: the internationally recognized Government of National Unity (GNU), which operates from Tripoli in the northwest, and the Government of National Stability (GNS), based in Benghazi in the east.
According to Hanna Tetteh, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Libya, ordinary Libyans contend with ongoing crises encompassing economic instability, security threats, and political turbulence. In a recent address to the Security Council, she highlighted the shared consensus among Libyan leaders regarding the necessity for a comprehensive political process aimed at ending unilateral actions, unifying disparate institutions, and restoring nationwide stability.
While there is agreement on the need to conduct elections, debates continue over the necessity of a constitutional framework prior to these elections. Some leaders posited that the establishment of a new unified government could solve current issues, while others caution that it might prolong the transitional phase.
“Political will for compromise is crucial to develop a consensual roadmap resolving Libya’s political crisis and completing the transition,” Ms. Tetteh asserted. She emphasized that integrating elections into a broader political framework is vital for strengthening institutions and fostering state-building.
Economic Competition and Political Divisions
The struggle for control over Libya’s oil wealth lies at the heart of its political and economic difficulties. Ms. Tetteh remarked that “the protracted institutional and political divisions, coupled with harmful unilateral actions and the struggle for control of resources by a privileged few, hold the aspirations and needs of the Libyan people captive.”
She issued a caution regarding potential economic collapse stemming from overspending on Libya’s plentiful resources without an agreed-upon national budget. “This is despite the fact that the country’s resources could provide adequately for the safety, security and well-being of its citizens,” she noted.
Challenges in Security and Human Rights
Despite the ceasefire established in 2020, Libya’s security situation is fragile, characterized by sporadic tensions and localized violence. Recent military escalations in Tripoli and disputes over territorial claims have raised concerns over a possible resurgence of conflict.
Widespread arbitrary detention remains a serious issue, particularly affecting legal professionals and political dissenters. Although some individuals have been released across both eastern and western regions, many continue to be held unlawfully, lacking necessary legal processes.
The overall human rights landscape is troubling, especially in terms of how migrants, refugees, and humanitarian workers are treated. Prevailing xenophobic rhetoric exacerbates social divides and threatens vulnerable communities. Women particularly face significant risks, including gender-based violence and restricted access to legal protections.
The Role of UNSMIL
In the midst of these challenges, the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) is actively working to connect political figures, civil society groups, and technical advisors to support a Libya-led resolution to the ongoing crisis. The mission is facilitating the Advisory Committee—established in February—to explore solutions to contentious electoral matters, with a report expected by the end of April.
Furthermore, UNSMIL is consulting with economic specialists to help bolster financial sustainability and transparency within Libya’s economy. Efforts to bridge communication gaps and enhance coordination between military authorities in eastern and western Libya are in progress, including the development of joint security coordination centers.
Need for International Collaboration and Political Commitment
Ms. Tetteh underscored the significance of international backing for Libya’s pursuit of political and economic recovery. As Libyan leaders navigate their complex disagreements, there is an increasing consensus on the need for external support to help foster a broad, Libyan-led solution to the country’s turmoil.
“The international community must come together to collaborate on a unified plan to support a democratic state that addresses the Libyan people’s fundamental needs and aspirations, fosters economic growth and equitable development,” she stated emphatically. “Inaction will be more detrimental than the cost of change.”
Source
news.un.org