UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Libya’s 5+5 Joint Military Committee (JMC) and all Libyan parties to intensify their efforts toward unifying the country’s military and security institutions. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening the implementation of the 2020 ceasefire agreement.
This statement came in Guterres’ report covering Libya’s political, economic, and security situation from August to December. The UN chief commended the 5+5 Committee’s continued commitment to supporting the ceasefire agreement.
### **Key Focus on Unification and Stability**
The most recent meeting of the 5+5 Committee was held in Turkey last November, where discussions centered on additional steps toward peace, stability, and security in Libya. Members exchanged ideas on fostering joint activities between eastern and western Libya.
At the time, the Turkish Ministry of Defense expressed its commitment to a united Libya, stating that the meeting was part of its broader goal to ensure that all Libyan institutions work collaboratively. Turkey reiterated its support for Libya’s peace process and pledged to maintain cooperation with all Libyan stakeholders.
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.
