UN Initiative Launched to Address Libya's Political Deadlock and Facilitate Elections

The United Nations is launching a new initiative to break a three-year impasse in Libya and guide the nation towards elections. The U.N. deputy special envoy for Libya, Stephanie Koury, informed the U.N. Security Council about plans to form an advisory committee. This committee will explore solutions to electoral challenges and create a roadmap for elections.

The advisory committee will include experts and respected figures representing Libya's diverse political, social, cultural, and geographical landscape. Koury clarified that this group is not meant to make decisions but to propose options for Libyan leaders to consider. "The committee will be composed of experts and respected personalities, who are reflective of the spectrum of Libyan political forces, social, cultural and geographical components," she said.

Libya's Political Stalemate

Libya has been in turmoil since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted Moammar Gadhafi. The country remains divided with rival governments in the east and west, supported by militias and foreign powers. The political crisis intensified when elections scheduled for December 24, 2021, were not held, and Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah refused to step down.

In response to Dbeibah's refusal to leave office, Libya's eastern parliament appointed a rival prime minister. However, this position has since changed hands. Meanwhile, Khalifa Hifter, a powerful military commander, continues to exert influence in the east.

Challenges to National Unity

Koury highlighted that unresolved electoral issues and political polarisation threaten Libya's unity and territorial integrity. Competition among armed groups for control over territory and resources further destabilises the country. She emphasised the need for stability and inclusivity among Libyan political forces and cultural groups.

Over recent weeks, Koury shared the initiative's framework with key Libyan figures and international partners. On Sunday night, she presented UNSMIL's plan to overcome the political deadlock to the Libyan public. The plan aims to stabilise Libya by promoting "Libyan ownership" and strengthening national institutions.

International Support

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield stressed the necessity of a new political process in Libya to prevent deeper divisions and potential violence. "We continue to believe the U.N. is the best-placed international actor to lead that process," she stated. She urged global support for these U.N.-led efforts.

The initiative seeks to unify Libya by addressing electoral challenges while ensuring representation from all segments of society. By fostering dialogue among Libyan leaders, it aims to pave the way for national elections and long-term stability.