UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on Libyan authorities to intensify efforts to protect the rights of migrants and refugees, dismantle human trafficking networks, and hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable. His appeal came in a detailed report submitted to the UN Security Council, covering developments in Libya between December 2024 and April 2025.
In the report, Guterres expressed alarm over the widespread violations of international law and human rights committed by security actors across Libya. He described these violations as deeply concerning and urged immediate corrective action to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Guterres also praised the work of the advisory committee facilitated by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), calling it a “critical step” toward reviving an inclusive political process. He stressed the importance of reaching a comprehensive agreement on a unified and balanced national budget, equipped with strong oversight mechanisms.
Economic governance was another key focus, with the Secretary-General underlining the need to respect the independence and integrity of Libya’s oversight institutions. He urged Libyan stakeholders to implement essential reforms to improve transparency, accountability, and financial management.
In a direct call to political actors, Guterres urged members of the High Council of State to convene and work toward reunifying the council, which remains fragmented amid the ongoing political divide.
The Secretary-General’s report highlights the need for urgent humanitarian and political interventions in Libya, where migrants and refugees continue to face dire conditions. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Libya’s stability, calling on authorities to prioritise human rights and the rule of law as part of any national recovery strategy.
