The National Institution for Human Rights in Libya (NIHRL) has praised the Libyan Government’s earlier decision to establish a temporary national committee tasked with monitoring the conditions of prisoners and detainees, describing the move as a positive and necessary step toward addressing long-standing violations within Libya’s detention system.
The committee was formed by the Libyan Government led by Osama Hammad as part of broader efforts to improve oversight of prisons, enforce judicial rulings, and address unlawful detention practices.
In its statement, the human rights body said that while the government’s decision was issued earlier, the start of the committee’s work represents a meaningful opportunity to translate policy into action.
The institution emphasized that the committee’s success will depend on its ability to enforce court orders, follow up on detainee files, and address persistent violations that have been ongoing for years.
The human rights body emphasized the importance of ending arbitrary detention and ensuring that all detainees are referred to the Public Prosecutor to determine the legality of their detention. It also highlighted cases involving individuals held without clear legal grounds, including detainees arrested on allegations related to so-called “public morals” or because of their religious beliefs, including followers of Sufi practices.
Reaffirming its full support, the institution said it stands ready to cooperate with the committee to help improve detention conditions, ensure access to healthcare and social services, and safeguard the rights and dignity of prisoners. It added that such reforms are essential to restoring public trust in state institutions and reinforcing respect for the rule of law.
The institution concluded that the committee’s work, if carried out effectively, could mark a turning point in addressing arbitrary detention, strengthening judicial authority, and advancing justice and accountability under the Libyan Government’s framework.
