On Thursday, the Germany government expressed its readiness to provide all technical and advisory support needed by Libya’s High National Elections Commission (HNEC), to hold Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
This came during a meeting between the Germany Ambassador in Libya, Michael Ohnmacht and HNEC’s Chairman, Emad Al-Sayeh in Tripoli.
The two discussed the latest developments in the Libyan political scene, both locally and internationally.
They also agreed on the need to enhance joint cooperation, and overcome any obstacles that might hinder the upcoming electoral process.
The Germany Ambassador praised the “national endeavours that seek stability, and the holding of the upcoming elections during the coming period.”
In December 2021, Germany provided €3 million euros in aid, to support the elections in Libya.
The Germany Ambassador stated that this will help UNDP continue its support for HNEC. In partnership with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), the project aims to strengthen HNEC’s capacity to plan and prepare for elections.
UNDP Resident Representative, Gerardo Noto stated that “UNDP along with UNSMIL through the Integrated UN Electoral Team will continue supporting HNEC in conducting democratic national elections. These are essential building blocks for an inclusive peace building and political process. As well as ensuring citizens’ participation to regain the democratic legitimacy of public institutions in Libya.”
Germany is one of the main UNDP Libya contributors ($44 million dollars in total). It has supported initiatives aimed at strengthening the rule of law, and democratic governance in Libya.
With funds from the European Union, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, France, and the UK contributing to the PEPOL project, an integrated team of electoral experts from UNDP and UNSMIL have been supporting HNEC since 2018. This is to enhance its institutional capacity to prepare, and deliver credible elections in Libya.