Stephanie Khoury, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), held a productive meeting with Belqasim Khalifa Haftar, the General Director of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund.
The meeting focused on strategies to ensure fair and sustainable development for all Libyans across the country. Discussions also covered ways to maintain financial and economic stability, including through effective, transparent, and accountable management of Libya’s resources.
This engagement underscores the ongoing efforts by UNSMIL and Libyan authorities to promote equitable growth and stability in the region, aiming to benefit all segments of the Libyan population.
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.
