The United Nations Support Mission in Libya said the outcomes of its structured dialogue reflect the proposals and views of thousands of Libyans, not only the opinions of those who took part in the dialogue sessions.
UNSMIL said the structured dialogue submitted its final recommendations on 7 June, following the participation of around 120 members from different political, social and regional backgrounds. The mission added that thousands of Libyans also contributed ideas through surveys and community consultations held over recent months.
According to UNSMIL, citizens shared their views on major issues facing Libya, including governance, security, the economy, national reconciliation and human rights. These public contributions were later presented to members of the structured dialogue to help draft practical recommendations.
The mission said around 6,000 people participated in its “Have Your Say” survey, which ran from 17 February to 1 April. A first survey, used to help set the priorities of the dialogue, received around 1,000 responses.
UNSMIL also allowed direct public participation through a Zoom session with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General. It also prepared a dialogue guide to help municipalities and local communities organise meetings and collect views on the issues under discussion.
The mission said these efforts were designed to help create suitable conditions for national elections, strengthen state institutions and address the root causes of conflict in Libya.
Survey results showed that 90% of participants supported holding national elections, describing them as an essential path out of Libya’s political crisis. Meanwhile, 79% said the continued presence of current bodies in power, and their unwillingness to allow elections, was the main obstacle to organising the vote. Participants also cited political divisions and security concerns as major barriers.
On the economy, the survey found that rising prices, cash shortages and the high cost of basic goods were among the main pressures facing Libyan citizens. Around 61% of participants said they did not trust the management of oil revenues and called for greater transparency, including the publication of oil production and revenue data.
The results also showed strong interest in entrepreneurship. UNSMIL said 86% of respondents had considered starting private businesses, but faced major challenges such as limited access to finance, market instability and complicated administrative procedures.
On national reconciliation and human rights, participants called for accountability and legal action against those responsible for violations. They also stressed the need for stronger judicial oversight and better protection for detainees. Around 67% said fear of arrest or retaliation was the main reason people avoid expressing political views online.
Security remained one of the main concerns raised by participants. Many identified armed formations, crime and political division as major challenges facing the country. They also called for the unification of military and security institutions and stronger respect for the rule of law.
UNSMIL said the final recommendations of the structured dialogue provide a basis for a Libyan-led political process aimed at holding national elections, strengthening state institutions and achieving long-term stability.
