The United Nations has stressed that sustainable development is a decisive factor in addressing the root causes of irregular migration and smuggling in Libya, underlining the link between economic stability, effective governance, and long-term security.
According to an official UN statement, Ulrika Richardson, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, met with Libya’s Minister of Planning Mohamed Al-Zaidani to discuss strengthening cooperation between the United Nations and Libyan state institutions.
The talks focused on enhancing joint efforts to support development priorities and reinforce institutional coordination across the country.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which aims to align international support with Libya’s national development goals. The discussions highlighted the importance of long-term development planning in fostering economic resilience, improving public services, and restoring confidence in state institutions.
UN officials emphasized that development plays a critical role in tackling the structural drivers of irregular migration, including unemployment, weak governance, corruption, and limited economic opportunities. These challenges, they noted, have contributed to the growth of illicit activities such as fuel smuggling, arms trafficking, drug trade, and human trafficking networks operating across Libya.
Richardson stressed that addressing these challenges requires more than security-based responses, calling instead for integrated development strategies that strengthen governance, promote transparency, and create sustainable livelihoods. She noted that meaningful progress in development can reduce the incentives that push individuals toward irregular migration and criminal networks, while also supporting peace and social cohesion.
Minister Al-Zaidani highlighted Libya’s interest in deepening cooperation with the United Nations to enhance planning capacity, improve institutional performance, and ensure that development programs deliver tangible benefits to citizens. He underscored that sustainable development is essential to stabilizing the country and reducing the pressures associated with migration and smuggling.