The Libyan government has reaffirmed its unwavering stance that Libyans have the sole right to resolve their divisions—regardless of their nature—through genuine, inclusive Libyan-led dialogue.
This process should embody a national desire for unity without accepting any foreign interference that does not serve the country’s interests.
Prime Minister Osama Hammad welcomed the appointment of the new UN Special Representative to Libya, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, expressing hope that she would carry out her duties in a manner reflecting the constructive role of the United Nations mission. ad
Hammad emphasised the importance of supporting Libyan-led efforts to resolve the crisis without enabling actions that undermine these initiatives.
The government also expressed its hopes for a new and pragmatic approach under Tetteh’s leadership, calling for equal support to all parties and a departure from the policies adopted by previous UN mission leaders. The government criticised former heads of the mission for allegedly prioritising personal interests over the integrity of the United Nations and the UN Security Council’s mission.
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.
