On Monday, the UN Special Envoy to Libya, Hanna Tetteh, met with Nicola Orlando, the EU Ambassador to Libya, to discuss the country’s ongoing crisis. Stephanie Khoury, the UN Deputy Envoy, and Anis Chuma, the UN Resident Representative, also attended.
The talks focused on Libya’s political deadlock, security concerns, and efforts to restore stability. Tetteh stressed the need for strong UN-EU cooperation and thanked the EU for its ongoing support in rebuilding institutions and promoting peace.
This meeting is part of Tetteh’s broader diplomatic strategy. She has been engaging with Libyan officials and international stakeholders to push for dialogue, political consensus, and the resumption of the electoral process. She aims to ease tensions and establish a clear roadmap for national stability.
Tetteh took office on January 24, replacing Abdoulaye Bathily. She steps into one of the most challenging diplomatic roles, overseeing a country deeply divided between rival factions. Libya has struggled with weak governance, armed conflicts, and repeated election delays. Various political groups continue to compete for control, while security remains fragile, with militias and foreign interests shaping internal affairs.
The EU has played a crucial role in Libya. It has provided financial aid, technical support, and security training. It has also assisted in electoral preparations, border security, and counterterrorism efforts. However, Libya’s ongoing instability and external influence have hindered meaningful progress.
Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has remained trapped in a cycle of conflict and political fragmentation. The country is effectively split between eastern and western administrations, each backed by military and political allies. The lack of a unified government has stalled international stabilization efforts and left Libya vulnerable to economic collapse and security threats.
Despite multiple UN-backed peace agreements, Libya’s leaders have failed to reach a lasting settlement. Foreign powers have also played a major role in prolonging divisions, supporting different factions to serve their own strategic and economic interests. The lack of a clear political transition plan has left millions of Libyans without a stable government, functioning institutions, or economic security.
The UN remains committed to finding a solution. Tetteh’s mission is to bring rival leaders together, restart negotiations, and secure international support for Libya’s recovery. The UN views the EU as a key partner in this process, particularly in helping Libya strengthen its institutions, control its borders, and prepare for long-overdue elections.
