The United Nations Security Council has voted to extend the mandate of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) until 31 October 2025, following the expiration of its previous authorization on 31 January.
The decision was announced on Wednesday during a Security Council session, where UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, briefed members on Libya’s political, economic, and security developments.
As part of the mission’s renewed efforts, newly appointed Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNSMIL, Hanna Tetteh, is set to assume her role in the coming days. DiCarlo emphasised that the mission aims to facilitate a national dialogue among Libyan stakeholders to help resolve ongoing political deadlock.
In a statement on Monday, Tetteh expressed her commitment to working closely with all Libyan parties, with support from the UN and the international community, to advance UNSMIL’s objectives.
The mission’s extension comes at a critical time as Libya remains divided between rival administrations in the east and west, with ongoing disputes over electoral laws and governance. Efforts to organise long-delayed national elections have repeatedly stalled, exacerbating instability in the country.
UNSMIL has been actively involved in mediation efforts to bridge political divisions, support security sector reforms, and promote economic stability. However, progress has been slow, with key stakeholders failing to reach consensus on a unified political roadmap.
The Security Council’s decision underscores continued international engagement in Libya’s fragile transition, with hopes that renewed diplomatic efforts can pave the way for a lasting political settlement.
