The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has expressed deep concern over recent statements by certain Libyan political figures who, according to the mission, appear to not only endorse public protests but actively encourage illegal actions against UN staff and property.
In a statement, the mission warned that “campaigns of incitement and disinformation” could signal efforts to derail political progress aimed at holding national elections, unifying state institutions, and achieving lasting peace in Libya. UNSMIL called on all parties to uphold the peaceful nature of demonstrations, refrain from unlawful actions, and resolve disputes through constructive dialogue.
The mission referenced the 1946 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations and its agreement with Libyan authorities, which guarantee the inviolability of UN premises. It urged full respect for the UN’s facilities, staff, and assets in accordance with international law.
The statement follows an incident last Tuesday, when protesters stormed the UN mission’s compound in Janzour, west of Tripoli, shortly after UN Special Representative Hanna Tetteh delivered a briefing to the UN Security Council on the situation in Libya. Videos circulated on social media showed demonstrators demanding the expulsion of the UN mission and the resignation of the Government of National Unity led by Abdulhamid Dbaiba.
In response, UNSMIL met with a delegation representing the demonstrators from the western region. The mission noted that the group voiced their frustration with the continued political and economic deterioration across Libya.
Reaffirming its “unconditional respect” for the right to peaceful protest, UNSMIL stressed its commitment to ongoing dialogue with all Libyans. The mission said it had received petitions from protesters during previous demonstrations and would continue to do so, promoting mutual respect and open discussion.
