UN Security Council Urges Unity Amid Libya’s Fragile Stability

The United Nations Security Council has been briefed on the precarious situation in Libya, with Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo highlighting the urgent need for national unity and stability.

DiCarlo’s remarks underscored the ongoing challenges in Libya, including entrenched divisions, economic mismanagement, and human rights violations, which continue to erode the country’s unity and stability.

Libya has been grappling with political instability since the 2011 revolution, with rival governments in Tripoli and the east vying for control.

The UN-recognized Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli and the eastern-based Government of National Stability (GNS) remain deadlocked over proposed legislation for national elections, a key step towards unifying the country’s divided government.

DiCarlo emphasized the importance of reviving the Libyan political process, which is facilitated by the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

UNSMIL has established an Advisory Committee to address contentious issues in electoral legislation, aiming to hold national elections in the shortest possible time. This committee includes 20 Libyan personalities, with 35% being women, and is tasked with providing recommendations to overcome obstacles to elections.

The Security Council reiterated its strong support for Libya’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national unity.

Members called on Libyan actors to refrain from unilateral actions that could exacerbate tensions and undermine trust among Libyans. The Council also emphasized the need for the full, equal, and safe participation of women, youth, and civil society in all activities related to the democratic transition.

As Libya marks the 14th anniversary of the 2011 revolution, the dream of a civil, democratic, and prosperous Libya remains elusive.

The UN’s efforts to facilitate a Libyan-led political process are crucial in addressing the country’s deep-seated challenges and achieving long-term stability.