The UN Security Council has reaffirmed its commitment to support Libya in establishing lasting peace through a Libyan-led political process. It called for international assistance in the forthcoming elections and emphasized the need for security reforms and improved management of migration issues. The Council highlighted the importance of accountability and human rights in addressing the crises faced by Libya.
On Thursday, the United Nations Security Council adopted a presidential statement urging the international community to bolster ongoing efforts towards establishing enduring peace in Libya. Amid persistent instability and conflict among various authorities and armed factions in the oil-rich North African state, the Council delineated its pressing concerns regarding the situation.
The Security Council reiterated its unwavering commitment to an inclusive, Libyan-led, and Libyan-owned political process, supported by the UN and the international community. The Council emphasized the necessity for the Libyan people to determine their governance through elections, and insisted that their legitimate aspirations be acknowledged by political leaders.
The Council called for full international support for the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative and the UN mission (UNSMIL) to address the impending challenges faced by Libya. In recent discussions, UN Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily indicated that the current fragile political landscape still falls short of meeting the aspirations of the Libyan populace, who are demanding reinvigorated political institutions and a new mechanism to facilitate upcoming elections.
To achieve a sustainable solution to the Libyan crisis, the Council urged the Special Representative to capitalize on the contributions of neighboring countries and regional organizations, particularly the African Union and the League of Arab States. Efforts to ensure fair, transparent, and inclusive presidential and parliamentary elections across Libya are also to be supported by the UN, including a needs assessment mission aimed at assisting the Libyan High National Elections Commission.
In acknowledging the need for security sector reform, the Council emphasized the importance of progressing towards the demobilization, disarmament, and reintegration of armed groups, as agreed upon by the 5+5 Joint Military Commission. Furthermore, the Council underscored the necessity for an inclusive, unified, and civilian-led security architecture for Libya.
The Council expressed grave concern regarding the trafficking of migrants and refugees through Libya, emphasizing the need for enhanced border management. It called upon Libyan authorities to uphold and protect the human rights of migrants, including children, and to take actionable steps towards the closure of migrant detention centers.
The UN Security Council has reinforced its commitment to supporting Libya in achieving lasting peace through a collaborative political process led by Libyans. It has urged the international community to assist in promoting fair elections, enhancing border management, and addressing human rights for migrants. The focus on reforming security and political institutions aims to stabilize Libya amidst ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: news.un.org
