Stephanie Khoury, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), has reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to helping Libyans avoid the dangers of division, violence, and resource wastage. Khouri emphasized the importance of facilitating an inclusive political process led and owned by Libyans themselves, including women, youth, and various communities.
In her first public statement since assuming the role of Acting Head of UNSMIL following the resignation of former Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily, Khoury highlighted the mission’s continued dedication to supporting the conduct of free and fair national elections. “The mission remains committed to supporting comprehensive national reconciliation, completing the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, addressing the proliferation of weapons, and improving the human rights situation and the rule of law,” she stated.
Khoury remarked that “the Libyan people have suffered enough from the lack of stability and development and are facing difficult living conditions today.” She called for everyone to work towards “the unity, sovereignty, stability, and prosperity of Libya.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed Khouri to her new position in early March, following her role as the Director of Political Affairs at the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS). Khouri arrived in Libya on April 24 and assumed her acting leadership role on May 16.
Expressing her joy at returning to Libya, where she worked between 2011 and 2013, Khoury said she aims to “support the Libyan people in achieving their aspirations for peace, stability, and democracy.” She added that “Libya, with its rich and diverse cultural fabric, holds a special place in my heart,” and this sentiment will drive her to fulfill the mission that Libyans expect from the United Nations.
