Libya’s Minister of Local Governance in the Government of National Unity (GNU), Badr Al-Din Al-Toumi, participated in the third edition of the “Looking South” International Forum in Sorrento, Italy. He was accompanied by Deputy Minister of Transport Khaled Sweissi and representatives from over 23 countries.
According to the “Hakomitna” platform on Facebook, Al-Toumi delivered a speech at the forum detailing Libya’s experience with the decentralization project. He highlighted the successes of his government in activating municipalities, empowering them to manage various responsibilities, collecting and utilizing local financial resources, and granting them a high degree of administrative and financial autonomy.
The forum aims to build and enhance a new vision for Southern Italy in the central maritime region, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and peacebuilding in the Mediterranean, according to “Hakomitna.”
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
