UN announces new political initiative to resolve Libya crisis

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) yesterday announced the formation of a technical committee comprising Libyan experts who will identify key milestones and priorities for a consensus-based government to resolve the country’s ongoing political crisis.

The announcement was made by Stephanie Khoury, the acting head of UNSMIL, in a video statement shared on the mission’s digital platforms yesterday evening.

“On Monday, I will reveal further details of this political process during a briefing to the Security Council,” Khoury said. She explained that the initiative seeks to maintain stability, prevent conflict, unify state institutions, pave the way for elections and address longstanding contentious issues.

“As a first step, a technical committee of Libyan experts will be formed to swiftly address disputes in electoral laws by developing options, including proposals for guarantees and reassurances within a set timeframe. The committee will also establish a governance framework, define key milestones and prioritise actions for a consensual government while adhering to principles that protect the interests of the Libyan people.”

UNSMIL will also focus on amplifying the voices of Libyan citizens, “ensuring their central role in shaping the country’s future.” This dialogue will involve broad participation, including political parties, women, youth, cultural groups and community leaders, Khoury explained.

Furthermore, “The mission will drive economic reforms, continue efforts to unify military and security institutions and support national reconciliation.”

These steps are part of broader efforts to pave the way for elections that could end Libya’s power struggle.

The country is currently divided between two rival governments: The first is the Government of National Unity (GNU), based in Tripoli, it is headed by Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, and which administers the entire western region of the country and enjoys international recognition.

The second was appointed by the House of Representatives in early 2022, headed by Osama Hammad, based in Benghazi, from where it governs the eastern region and most cities in the south.

Libyans hope that the long-awaited elections will bring an end to political and armed conflicts, bringing to an end the ongoing transitional phases that have persisted since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime in 2011.

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