The UN Security Council warns that Libya’s fragile stability is increasingly at risk due to internal divisions, economic mismanagement, and human rights violations. Calls have been made for support of the new UN Special Representative to help resolve the crisis and facilitate inclusive national elections after years of political division. An Advisory Committee has been formed to tackle electoral issues, while the country faces significant challenges regarding governance, security, and humanitarian concerns surrounding migrants and refugees.
The UN Security Council heard concerns regarding Libya’s precarious stability, as the country struggles with entrenched divisions, economic mismanagement, and human rights violations. Rosemary DiCarlo of UN Political and Peacebuilding Affairs highlighted that these factors undermine unity and stability, warning that Libya’s fragile situation is increasingly threatened by leaders prioritizing their interests over national unity.
In support of progress, DiCarlo urged the Council to back the newly appointed UN Special Representative, Hanna Tetteh, in addressing the political stalemate and aiding Libyans in unifying institutions to organize inclusive national elections. Libya, divided between two rival administrations for over ten years, has seen the cancellation of planned elections due to candidate eligibility disputes.
To facilitate resolution, the UN Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has formed an Advisory Committee consisting of legal and constitutional experts focused on overcoming obstacles to national elections. DiCarlo noted that this body, whose recommendations are supported by various Libyan stakeholders, would help revive the political process through inclusivity and national ownership.
UNSMIL recently convened meetings to address contentious issues concerning Libya’s governance, while simultaneously promoting a structured dialogue among Libyans to tackle longstanding conflicts and outline a collective vision for the country’s future. Economic considerations are also in focus, with consultations among experts aiming to establish sound governance and transparent public spending frameworks.
Persistent divisions over control of state institutions remain unresolved, undermining efforts toward a unified budget and economic cooperation. The political landscape is clouded by competition for power, evident in disputes regarding leadership positions and an inability to fulfill institutional responsibilities.
Progress toward national reconciliation is hampered by politicization. Although an agreement on a draft law for reconciliation was reached, amendments have raised concerns regarding the independence of proposed bodies. Recently, a charter for reconciliation was supported by some stakeholders while others opposed it, highlighting ongoing engagement from UN bodies.
Non-state armed groups threaten Libya’s ongoing stability, requiring transparent investigations into recent armed attacks and the proper implementation of the 2020 Ceasefire Agreement. DiCarlo emphasized the necessity of improving security conditions to benefit said agreement and facilitate institutional reform.
In addition to these issues, human rights concerns persist, including arbitrary detentions and mistreatment of migrants, alongside tragic discoveries of mass graves linked to human trafficking. These observations prompted calls for urgent investigations and robust responses to protect vulnerable communities.
Lastly, DiCarlo highlighted the dire humanitarian needs of Sudanese refugees in Libya, underlining a request for increased financial support to address those needs. The 2025 Sudan Refugee Regional Response Plan aims to assist 446,000 persons, demanding a significant budget to enhance regional humanitarian efforts.
The ongoing instability in Libya poses serious challenges that need urgent attention. With various stakeholders engaged in addressing political, economic, and humanitarian issues, the UN and Libyan authorities must collaborate to navigate these complexities. Effective leadership, transparent governance, and concerted efforts are paramount for achieving lasting peace and stability in Libya.
Original Source: news.un.org
