Libyan Human Rights Organisation Blames Government for Failing to Cooperate with UN

The National Commission for Human Rights in Libya (NCHRL) expressed its “deep dissatisfaction and denunciation at the government’s lack of cooperation with the United Nations Independent Fact-Finding Mission to Libya.”

The Commission said in a statement that the “Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice of the Government of National Unity (GNU) have failed to grant necessary permissions to facilitate the work of the UN mission teams. This is to reach a number of Libyan cities and regions and to meet with the victims and affected people.” It added that “no permits were granted for prison visits under the control of the Ministry of Justice to investigate alleged abuses.”

The United Nations Independent Fact-Finding Mission conducted investigations on the ground in Libya from 20 October to 21 November.

“These restrictions, procedures, and practices imposed by the Libyan authorities and their lack of cooperation in granting work permits are a miscarriage of efforts to achieve the rule of law and justice, end impunity, and improve the human rights situation in Libya,” the statement said.

The NCHRL stressed the importance of full cooperation with the United Nations Independent Fact-Finding Mission to Libya, and its support for the success of its tasks and work.

The mission was the first Fact-Finding Mission’s (FFM’s) to Libya since the Human Rights Council extended its mandate from July 2022, to March 2023.

During the mission, investigators met with and interviewed witnesses, civil society organizations and female human rights defenders. They also conducted field investigations, and met with Libyan authorities.

The Mission reiterated its request to access to prisons and detention centers to investigate alleged violations. However, the FFM has not been given such access to date. It has also not received permission from local authorities to visit the city of Sebha, despite repeated requests.

“The FFM Libya will continue its work in Libya, and will report to the Human Rights Council at its session in March 2023,” the Mission said in a statement.