The United Nations Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said that inequality in accessing the country’s wealth serves as a significant driver of political instability.
Sonja Sigmund, a political affairs officer at the UN mission, pointed out that lack of transparency and accountability in managing these resources, along with limited social and economic prospects—especially for Libyan women and youth—strongly contribute to insecurity in Libya.
Speaking during a discussion marking the “International Women’s Day,” Sigmund stated, “Systemic discrimination against women, unequal opportunities, and limited resource access not only hinder individuals from realizing their potential but also impede overall prosperity and resilience in Libyan society.”
According to estimates by the UN mission, Libya, classified by the World Bank as a country with medium to high income, has seen a 54% decline in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) between 2010 and 2024 due to years of conflict, political instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural disasters.
Twenty women from civil society participated in a webinar, including remarks from economic expert Hala Bougaighis from the Jossour “(Bridges) Foundation, along with representatives from the UNSMIL and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
On Friday, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed deep concern over armed clashes in Tripoli on April 11. It urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid escalation or retaliation.
UNSMIL condemned the recurring use of violence to settle disputes, stating that it gravely endangers civilians and further undermines the fragile security situation. “Those responsible must be held accountable,” it added.
In a statement, the mission highlighted that the chronic insecurity stems from the prolonged political crisis and eroded institutional legitimacy.
“It’s a reminder that Libya needs to prioritize elections to establish legitimate governing bodies able to extend the State’s authority & uphold the rule of law,” the UN mission concluded.
