Stephanie Khoury, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to fostering stability and sustainable prosperity in Libya.
In a statement marking United Nations Day (UN Day), Khoury highlighted the vital role the UN plays in promoting peace, dialogue, human rights, and development worldwide.
“On UN Day, we reflect on the significant role of the United Nations in advancing peace and dialogue, defending human rights, and promoting development,” Khoury stated on X (formerly Twitter).
She emphasized that the UN has been a pivotal partner in Libya’s journey towards independence and remains committed to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country.
Khoury affirmed that UNSMIL will continue to align its efforts with the principles of the UN Charter. “Together with all Libyans, we will persist in our mission to achieve lasting stability and sustainable prosperity for everyone in Libya,” she added.
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.
