The United Nations (UN) has announced a new initiative aimed at resolving the political deadlock in Libya and advancing the country towards long-delayed national elections. In a statement on Sunday, Stephanie Koury, the acting head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), confirmed the formation of a technical committee comprising Libyan experts tasked with tackling key issues that have stalled the electoral process.
Libya’s political turmoil has persisted since the collapse of elections scheduled for December 2021, which were derailed due to disputes over the eligibility of candidates. This new committee is expected to focus on addressing contentious electoral laws and exploring ways to bring about elections as soon as possible. Koury highlighted that the committee’s mandate will include proposing guarantees, setting clear timeframes, and providing assurances to ensure a smooth transition to elections.
Koury emphasized the UN’s commitment to facilitating a swift and credible electoral process, noting that “the goal is to reach elections in the shortest possible time,” with an emphasis on resolving obstacles that have left the country without a clear path forward since 2021.
The political situation remains complex, as the Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, was formed through a UN-backed process in 2021. However, the legitimacy of this government has been called into question by the Libyan parliament, which no longer recognizes its authority. Despite this, al-Dbeibah has repeatedly stated that he will not cede power to any new administration until national elections are held.
Since the NATO-backed overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been engulfed in conflict and division. The country was further split in 2014 between eastern and western factions, each controlling their own territory and backed by rival military forces. Although all major political players in Libya have called for elections, many Libyans remain skeptical, fearing that such calls are a political ploy by those in power to secure their positions.
In addition to its electoral efforts, UNSMIL is working to unify Libya’s military and security institutions, which remain divided, and to advance national reconciliation. Koury stressed the importance of these initiatives, underscoring that long-term stability will require both political and security reform.
As the UN ramps up its efforts, it remains to be seen whether this new initiative can break the longstanding deadlock and guide Libya toward a democratic and peaceful future.