S/PV.10107 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Libya to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya; and Mr. Ahmed Albibas, Chairman of Moomken Organization for Awareness and Media. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I now give the floor to Ms. Tetteh. Ms. Tetteh: I wish those fasting Ramadan Mubarak. Since my previous briefing (see S/PV.10074) on the political road map, including the launch of the structured dialogue, each thematic group — the economy, governance, security and national reconciliation and human rights — has held two rounds of deliberations in Tripoli. Across the four tracks, the sense of urgency to resolve the political impasse and to produce governance and economic reforms is palpable. The governance and security tracks focused on recommendations for creating the conditions for holding national elections. The economy track emphasized the need to address excessive spending, while exploring options to increase State revenues through economic diversification and strengthened public financial management. The national reconciliation and human rights track called for the judiciary to be insulated from political interference and polarization to safeguard its unity and independence. The women’s caucus has also proven to be an effective mechanism to enhance women’s participation in the structured dialogue. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has also facilitated meetings between the governance and economy tracks of the structured dialogue and the relevant Berlin process working groups in order for Libyans to convey first-hand their priorities and exchange views on international support needed to address critical reforms on strengthening governance. I welcome the completion of municipal elections in three western municipalities on 7 February. Over the past 14 months, elections have been concluded in 119 municipalities, an important development for accountable local governance. In addition, the election of a second woman mayor in Libya’s history was recently announced. Regrettably, there has been no meaningful progress between the House of Representatives and the High Council of State in completing the first two steps of the road map, despite UNSMIL’s efforts. I previously reported that the two institutions reached agreement on establishing a mechanism for the selection of the High National Elections Commission Board by 11 December. The agreement was not implemented as stipulated, and subsequent unilateral actions were taken, first by the House of Representatives and then by the High Council of State, both of which complicated the situation further and which now could threaten the unity of the High National Elections Commission. UNSMIL has also conveyed that it will continue to work with the existing members of the High National Elections Commission Board until such time as there is agreement. Amending the electoral and legal framework also remains blocked. Despite UNSMIL’s sustained engagement with the two institutions, their inability to use their agreed mechanism and follow-on unilateral actions has further eroded their credibility and confirms Libyan perceptions that the two bodies are unable or unwilling to work together to conclude the first two milestones of the road map. In the light of this impasse and my commitment in my previous briefing to advance an alternative approach, I have conducted preliminary talks with key political actors on a two-step approach: forming a small group to resolve these two road map milestones, critical for elections. Should this group fail to agree, a broader convening will be necessary to take forward the implementation of the road map. We have the opportunity to use the tools within the existing Libyan political agreements to break this protracted impasse, and we would appreciate the support of the Council to enable us to move forward. In my August briefing (see S/PV.9984), I estimated that these milestones could be concluded in two months, with the necessary political will. Six months later, the facts speak for themselves, and we cannot wait indefinitely. The situation in Libya is deteriorating on many fronts. Libya’s judicial system, which has historically remained largely unified, despite prolonged political challenges, with the Supreme Court in Tripoli, including its Constitutional Chamber, serving as the highest constitutional judicial body, is now increasingly divided, with serious implications for the country’s unity. In 2023, the House of Representatives established a Supreme Constitutional Court in Benghazi, which became functional in December 2025, operating in parallel to the previously established Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court in Tripoli. There are now competing mandates, conflicting court rulings and judicial incoherences. On 18 January 2026, the Benghazi-based Court issued rulings nullifying a 2014 judgment of the Tripoli-based Constitutional Chamber that had invalidated the House of Representatives’ mandate. The same day, the Benghazi- based Court also upheld law No. 1 of 2020, which annulled legislation enacted after August 2014 by the General National Congress. At the time, the General National Congress did not recognize the results of the 2014 parliamentary elections, which created the House of Representatives, and continued issuing legislation. This impasse was overcome through the negotiation of the Libyan Political Agreement. Afterwards, on 28 January, the Tripoli-based Constitutional Chamber, the earlier Court, declared law No. 1 unconstitutional, contradicting the prior decisions by the Benghazi Court. On 15 February, the Benghazi-based Court issued rulings annulling the Tripoli-based Court’s 28 January decision and declared unconstitutional an earlier House of Representatives decision to appoint the President of the Supreme Court in Tripoli. I know this is a bit of back and forth. But it just tells us that this is a process that essentially is dividing the Libyan judiciary. On 12 February 2026, the Presidential Council issued a decree, transferring the Official Gazette to the Government of National Unity Ministry of Justice based on a November 2025 ruling of the Tripoli-based Chamber. This ruling rendered unconstitutional a 2022 law which had transferred the Official Gazette to the House of Representatives. There is also a dispute over the organization of the judiciary, including the Supreme Judicial Council, which could lead to its division. The consequences of these actions are clear — contradictory, parallel judicial decisions put into jeopardy the unity of the legal and judicial systems and weaken the administration of justice in Libya by rendering ineffective the last mechanism for ensuring the accountability of governance actors. Ultimately it would also obstruct the United Nations-facilitated political process. If actions are not taken to preserve the unity, coherence and independence of the judiciary, the conflicting legal systems that emerge will impact the economy, elections, governance, security and human rights. It is a red line that, if crossed, can undermine the unity of the State. I urge Libyan leaders to refrain from escalatory measures and cooperate with the independent Libyan mediation committee that is constituted by Libyan judicial and legal experts committed to maintaining a unified judiciary. They are using their best efforts to find a mutually acceptable solution. I call on the Council to hold individuals who continue to take actions towards dividing the judiciary and the administration of justice to be held accountable for these actions that seek to undermine the unity of the country. Libya’s economic trajectory is also in a downturn, and the Libyan people are facing significant hardships, with devaluation of the currency, increasing prices, fuel shortages and growing discontent. This was recognized by the Prime Minister in his address yesterday. The absence of a unified national budget and uncoordinated public spending due to parallel State institutions, along with declining oil revenues, have contributed to persistent foreign currency imbalances. This is causing mounting pressure on foreign reserves and a steady decline in value of the Libyan dinar. On 18 January, the Central Bank of Libya devalued the dinar, for a second time in nine months, by roughly 14.7 per cent. While intended to ease foreign currency pressures and narrow the gap with the parallel market, the devaluation is impacting the purchasing power of vulnerable households. These developments underscore that the current economic model is not sustainable. Over the last two months through the structured dialogue, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, along with Libyan economic experts, have provided sobering assessments of the country’s economic and financial situation. The Government of National Unity Minister of Economy and Trade reported in January that, according to studies, roughly 30 per cent of Libyans are living in poverty. Independent estimates paint an even starker picture. Additionally, according to World Food Programme, the price of Libya’s Minimum Food Expenditure Basket increased by 24 per cent from early 2024 to mid-2025. Poverty rates are expected to worsen, absent political stabilization, with marginalized areas, such as the south, bearing the heaviest burden. In January, Libya hosted the Energy and Economic Summit, which led to new agreements with foreign companies in the hydrocarbon sector. On 11 February, the National Oil Corporation announced awards for five areas for oil and gas licenses. This suggests a degree of renewed investor interest, which is a positive development. While this presents opportunities for additional revenue generation in the medium term, it is unlikely that there will be any positive impact on revenue generation during this financial year and hence will not address Libya’s immediate fiscal and liquidity strains. Governance weaknesses, fragmented oversight and persistent leakages through smuggling, arbitrage networks and illicit rents also continue to drain sovereign resources. Investigations from the Attorney-General’s Office indicate that the fuel- for-crude mechanism, which ended in 2025, drained the State budget by about $1.5 billion annually, when compared to global market prices. Recurrent fuel shortages may create the temptation to return to this opaque barter system, but in the light of the losses incurred by the previous arrangement and weak governance and financial oversight, the risk of a further drain of the country’s resources is evident. Meanwhile, public spending remains rigid and largely unproductive. Currently, nearly 80 per cent of the total State expenditures is on public salaries and subsidies, leaving little for investment in recovery and sustainable development. The unified development programme that was signed last year should be implemented, as a first step towards a unified budget to prevent further economic deterioration and the consequential impact on the public. Transnational criminal networks have flourished in Libya, further undermining stability and security. They thrive amid fragmented security and law-enforcement institutions, porous borders, weak financial oversight and limited accountability. A report issued in January by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime showed that Libya has become a major transit hub for drug trafficking. This is closely linked to other transnational organized crimes, including the trafficking of weapons and people. These illicit economies generate substantial revenues, intersect with corruption and informal financial flows, and inevitably undermine State authority, distort the economy and fuel instability. A joint report issued on 17 February by the High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNSMIL, on human trafficking, highlights human rights violations of migrants and asylum seekers, and details criminal transnational trafficking networks plaguing Libya. Most recently, in December 2025 and January 2026, the bodies of 21 migrants, including women, were discovered in a mass grave in Ajdabiya, while more than 400 migrants, including women and children, were released from trafficking and detention sites in Ajdabiya, Tubruq and Kufrah, many bearing signs of torture. This is not unique. Previous reports indicate that such incidents are ongoing all over the country. I urge Libyan authorities, in cooperation with international partners, to take decisive action to dismantle these illicit networks and hold the perpetrators accountable. Targeted killings also continue. On 3 February, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, who was subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant, was killed in the Zintan area, under unclear circumstances. It has been announced that an investigation will take place, and we call for a swift and transparent investigation process in order to ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable. I would like pay tribute to the dedicated services of General Mohammed Al- Haddad, Chief of the General Staff of the Libyan Army and Lieutenant General Al- Fitouri Ghribil, a member of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission, and their three colleagues and crew who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on 23 December. General Al-Haddad was a steadfast advocate for the unification of Libya’s military institutions, and Lieutenant General Ghribil played a key role in securing the 2020 ceasefire agreement. Despite financial challenges, UNSMIL has made noteworthy progress in implementing the strategic review recommendations. An integrated economic section is being operationalized to strengthen analytical capacity and advance priority economic reform efforts. Engagement on the security track has been streamlined into one coherent security institutions reform and reunification section. We are deploying additional staff into eastern Libya and are also working to enhance our efficiencies as much as possible using only our existing resources. In closing, economic conditions are deteriorating, and poverty and pressure on society are increasing. This situation, in addition to the fragile security landscape, should be a matter for concern, as such conditions can lead to unexpected political and security challenges. Hence the need to work with Libyans through the road map to address the main cause of this dysfunction, which is a divided Government, with limited coordination and unilateral actions, including significant uncoordinated and uncontrolled spending, and a system of subsidies that is being exploited for private gain. This combination of factors that I have referenced today creates a situation that is undermining the territorial integrity and unity of the State. This will have implications for the country and the broader region. The only way forward is a political solution that brings Libyans together. It is important that our collective efforts, including bilateral initiatives, complement each other and address critical economic and security risks. As we seek to engage all relevant actors to advance the road map, the support of the Council remains a critical prerequisite for success.

I thank Ms. Tetteh for her briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Albibas.

I come before Council members today to convey an aspiration that Libyans have long cherished: a unified State, instead of warring factions; one single national army that defends the borders, instead of armed groups defending vested interests; and the rule of law, whereby wealth is distributed equitably and rules apply to the powerful and the underprivileged alike. Since 2011, we have been trapped in a cycle of hope and despair. The silence of the guns does not herald lasting peace so long as weapons are rife, institutions are divided and legitimacy remains indefinitely on hold. Allow me to set out the three major challenges facing Libya today and to highlight the vital role of civil society organizations in maintaining the cohesion of our society while State-building remains unfinished. First, the political process is an issue. Libyans were promised that elections would be held on 24 December 2021. That date has come and gone, and we languish in limbo. Amid the protracted crisis, exceptions have become the rule, the war economy is booming, trust in peaceful solutions is eroded, and the State represents spoils to be carved up behind closed doors. Today, many Libyans are losing faith in the political process — not because it is international in nature but because it has continued to be ineffectual and undermined by parallel tracks and contradictory messages that undermine the Council’s resolutions. Secondly, the security situation is fragile. Despite the ceasefire agreement signed on 23 October 2020, whose implementation the Council called for, weapons are an abiding feature of public spaces, the military is fragmented, and the risk of violence persists. Libyan citizens are fearful and cling to their personal weapons, not out of a love of fighting but because they have no confidence that the State will protect them in the future. We must be wary of the anger of an oppressed, impoverished and armed people with nothing left to lose. The Libyan people are seething, and we do not know when they will boil over again, as they did on 17 February 2011, or how that might unfold. Thirdly, the economic situation is taking a toll. Daily life has become unbearable for the population. The average Libyan citizen does not read political statements; he or she reads the harsh reality of power outages, cash shortages and soaring medication prices in an oil-rich country. After the devaluation of the dinar on 18 January, the minimum wage plummeted to below $135, according to the current exchange rate. How can a father look his children in the eye when he has only $135 to last the month? This figure represents more than an economic statistic; it reflects the social pressure driving young and old into the informal economy, potentially allowing local and transnational organized crime to take hold. In this context, civil society has become a lifeline, shielding society when the State falters and when institutions fail. Civil society steps in to provide relief, clear mines, document violations, mediate at the local level, preserve social cohesion and facilitate the return of displaced persons, as it did during the 2011 revolution and the wars from 2014 to 2019. Derna is the clearest example that the corruption and divisions plaguing Libya are now killing far more than bullets do. The September 2023 disaster was a direct result of the State’s fragility and fragmentation. While the United Nations was reporting a toll of more than 5,800 dead and more than 44,000 displaced, civil society was on the ground before the State was, assessing needs, providing relief, opening roads and preparing shelters. Let me be clear: civil society is a partner. We are not competing for power; we serve and defend the people. However, our space is shrinking owing to threats, smear campaigns and arbitrary administrative restrictions. The most recent example of this is the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear appeals brought under the former regime’s law on associations, arguing the invalidity of the organizations’ current registration. These organizations were established pursuant to article 15 of the Libyan Constitutional Declaration, which guarantees our freedom of association. As a result, we continue to be divested of legal status or protection. The six bills on civil society organizations put before the current Parliament in the past decade have been mothballed. They have not been debated or voted on, and there is a complete lack of transparency surrounding the reasons for failure to enact a law that would protect and empower civil society in Libya. Financial restrictions further complicate matters, with the Central Bank of Libya controlling the accounts of organizations, absent any clear legal framework. This state of affairs is being exploited by corrupt networks to prey on these organizations. We are not seeking immunity, but rather clear rules that do not paralyse legitimate civic activity. Undermining civil society does not create a neutral vacuum; instead, it paves the way for corruption and extremism. To the international community, we say that we need to see a unified stance. Rivalries and parallel tracks for resolving the crisis should not be allowed to undermine accountability. It must support a single United Nations-led process with a clear time frame that ends division and builds institutions. To the Libyan leadership, we say that the Libyan people are watching them. It is not possible to govern the free people of Libya when legitimacy has expired. The only way forward is through an agreement that hands power back to the people of Libya through the ballot box. It cannot rely on foreign powers. The Libyan leadership must not succumb to the mentality of regarding itself as the only alternative to chaos. It must agree on the basics: one State, with all of us united in defence of our nation and one ballot box that ushers in equitable laws that guarantee equal opportunities, afford access to resources and give a voice to all. To translate words into tangible action, I propose four practical demands. First, there must be support for an electoral process that is circumscribed by a clear and time-bound road map, with guarantees that its results will be adhered to. This should be part of a single process led by the United Nations to prevent the proliferation of competing initiatives. Secondly, with a view to achieving deterrence and accountability, we call for a serious, evidence-based enforcement of sanctions against those who obstruct elections, violate the ceasefire, smuggle arms, plunder public funds and profit from the war economy. Thirdly, we call for support for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the unification of the security and military institutions, enhanced monitoring and the withdrawal of foreign forces. Fourthly, we call for the protection of civil society organizations, activists and their activities to be a standing item in the Council’s resolutions, which must condemn threats and call for the enactment of legislation to protect and empower these organizations, for an end to arbitrary actions by the Central Bank of Libya and for a safe and fair environment for civil and political activity. In conclusion, I thank Council members for their attention. Libyans look forward to tangible results, namely sustainable security, unified institutions and elections that will end the transitional phase. We envision a State governed by the rule of law that protects and empowers all citizens, without discrimination. Help us to move from crisis management to nation-building.

I thank Mr. Albibas for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I thank Special Representative Tetteh and Mr. Ahmed Albibas for their briefings. I want to express our appreciation for Special Representative Tetteh’s ongoing work to support Libyan-led efforts to put the country on a path towards greater security, stability and prosperity. The Libyan people deserve a better future — one that only real political progress can deliver. Libya has tremendous potential, but it can unlock it only by overcoming the divisions of the past. All Member States represented in the Chamber today will benefit from a Libya that is stable, unified and fully at peace — a Libya that can focus on creating prosperity for its people and on forging mutually beneficial economic ties with international partners. Real progress will require vision and compromise by Libyan leaders to put the good of the country first. On the basis of the concrete achievements that we have seen in Libya over the past year, I am confident that Libya can move in the right direction. With the support of Special Representative of the Secretary-General Tetteh, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and Member States, Libyan leaders can achieve a brighter future for their country. Under this Administration, the United States will be at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to bring unity and lasting peace to Libya. In support of Libyan leaders and UNSMIL’s road map, we are bringing together senior officials from eastern and western Libya to forge concrete steps towards military and economic integration. Our message to Libyan leaders is clear: it is time to overcome the divisions of the past, and the United States will be there to support them when they take meaningful steps towards unity. The results thus far give reason for cautious hope. Libyan leaders are making meaningful progress in integrating security institutions. In April, the United States Africa Command will conduct a spoke of Flintlock 26 — its annual flagship special operations exercise — in Sirte, Libya. This is possible only because Libyan leaders are willing to work together to host this exercise. The fact of Libyan forces from both east and west training side by side marks a major milestone towards military unification. We hope this is just the first step towards more joint training, exercises and operations. On the economic front, we supported Libyan leaders in their efforts to conclude the unified development programme agreement back in November. The programme empowers the National Oil Corporation and the Central Bank of Libya, the pillars of the Libyan economy, as drivers of economic growth. This is a critical step for financial stability, and we congratulate them on this important step. Yet there is more work to be done. We encourage Libyan leaders to fully implement this agreement and take the next step to adopting an annual budget that will represent a major milestone in economic reconciliation. Pragmatic compromises, coordination and cooperation on economic and security sector integration will open the door for meaningful cooperation on the political front and help to create the conditions for Libyans to achieve real unified governance and eventual elections. Our goal, one we know that all those here today share, is to create the conditions for a democratically elected Government able to lead Libya. The United States will be there to support Libyan leaders in this endeavour. The bottom line is that unification is the key to Libya’s stability and prosperity. A Libya with integrated security institutions, a stable economic system and a single governing structure is a strong Libya, a successful Libya and a prosperous Libya. And the more progress Libya can make on this path, the better a partner it will be to the rest of us, enabling more cooperation on shared security and commercial priorities. A stable and secure Libya will not only serve its own people, but it will also strengthen security across North Africa and the Mediterranean, reduce space for illicit trafficking and irregular migration and create new opportunities for legitimate economic partnership. The United States looks forward to continuing to work with Libya, the United Nations and other partners on this crucial effort.

We are grateful to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, Hanna Tetteh, and Ahmed Albibas, for their briefings. We welcome the participation in today’s meeting of the Permanent Representative of Libya to the United Nations, Mr. Taher El-Sonni. For nearly 15 years, this country has been in a state of deep division. Thus far, its leaders have not managed to reach consensus vis-à-vis ways to surmount the comprehensive crisis. The long-term consequences of the failure to reach a political resolution continue to loom large. The financial and economic situation is deteriorating. There is a lack of cash. Inflation is growing. The Libyan dinar is losing value. Delays in payments to civil servants are now commonplace. Against this backdrop, the plight of ordinary Libyans continues to worsen, which in turn is leading to growing social tensions and the risk of popular unrest. As a result, protests are spreading in many cities in the west of the country. The security situation is far from ideal, specifically around Tripoli. This part of the country remains a powder keg of potential for conflict. The reason for this is the activity of a large number of armed groups, accountable to nobody, which are implementing their own agendas. There are also armed clashes concentrated in southern regions of the country. One unfortunate manifestation of the erosion of security and the violence spilling over into the political arena was the murder on 3 February in Zintan, under unclear circumstances, of an eminent politician and public figure, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the son of the former leader of the country. We firmly condemn this brutal and inhuman act. We extend our condolences to the family and the loved ones of the deceased. We sincerely hope that the competent structures will promptly conduct a thorough investigation into what transpired and that perpetrators will be held to account. We welcome the African Union-led efforts to achieve national reconciliation in Libya. We take note of the approval by the President of the Presidential Council of that country, Mohamed Younis A Menfi, of the charter for peace and national reconciliation, which had been signed by almost all Libyan stakeholders. We hope that this document will also contribute to promptly overcoming this protracted crisis. Political unity in Libya is key to the long-anticipated normalization of all spheres of life in the country. We note the coordinating role of the United Nations in the resolution of Libyan matters. We extend support to the Special Representative, Hanna Tetteh, and her efforts geared towards surmounting the domestic stagnation and removing obstacles towards the conduct in Libya of nationwide elections. At the same time, we wish to emphasize that plans to revive the Libyan political process, regardless of how ambitious they may be, must be implemented gradually, in a phased manner. This work needs to be done consistently, within the timelines that have been set out by the United Nations. Moreover, the consensus within Libyan society on all aspects of this plan must be safeguarded, first and foremost through targeted, meaningful cooperation with all of the main Libyan stakeholders. The willingness to participate in the process of resolution will ultimately be a key factor in its success. The forums for discussion, in our view, are subsidiary bodies. Of course, they can be beneficial under certain circumstances, inter alia to take stock of the public mood, but at the same time, they will not resolve all of the problems faced by Libyans. Meaningful progress in the advancement of comprehensive and sustainable political resolution in Libya is only possible with full-fledged international support and with the requisite participation of all influential external players. Therefore, we support the ongoing work of the Berlin process on Libya, in its original configuration. It is important for the functioning of all the structures established under the Berlin format for there to be compliance with the proper levels of inclusivity and for specific decisions of certain participants not to be portrayed as the fruit of the collective labour of component States. To conclude, we reaffirm our support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Libya and the achievement of the long-anticipated peace and stability. We stand ready to continue to provide our support, to the extent that it is possible.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Hanna Tetteh, for her briefing and her efforts in the field. I would also like to thank Mr. Ahmed Albibas for his briefing. Fifteen years after the 2011 revolution, the Libyan people have very high expectations for the political process and the organization of national elections. Thanks to the United Nations road map, we have a clear path forward to break the political deadlock in Libya. I would like to emphasize four points. First, the international community must support the Special Representative in her efforts to implement the road map, in accordance with the latest renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, approved by the Council. The objectives of the road map, namely the reunification of all Libyan institutions and the holding of presidential and parliamentary elections, are clear demands of the Libyan people. These objectives guarantee the central position of Libyan institutions in the political process. We encourage Libyan political actors to seize this opportunity constructively and responsibly, in order to overcome their differences. We welcome the holding of a structured dialogue and the indispensable engagement of its members, including Libyan women, to contribute to a solution led by and for Libyans. The implementation of this road map will ensure Libya’s unity, sovereignty and stability. Secondly, progress must be made towards reunifying Libya’s military and security forces in order to break the cycle of recurring tensions. The security situation remains unstable in Libya, with the country marked by high levels of political violence and the presence of numerous armed groups and militias. The reunification of the army and security services must remain a priority for the Council. This requires the presence of a unified Government throughout Libya, which is a prerequisite for ensuring security and stability. The withdrawal of foreign forces, mercenaries and fighters, in accordance with the 2021 Libyan plan endorsed by the Council, must accompany Libya’s military reunification so that it can regain its full sovereignty. Thirdly, on the economic front, greater transparency, governance and distribution of national wealth are urgently needed for the benefit of the Libyan people. The lack of political unity is fuelling the socioeconomic difficulties suffered by Libyans. The economic situation, ahead of Ramadan, is particularly worrying. We encourage any initiative aimed at progressing towards Libya’s economic reunification, in conjunction with the revival of the political process. The fight against corruption must also be stepped up. Finally, the human rights situation in Libya remains a cause for concern. We call on the Libyan authorities to guarantee the rule of law, strengthen the fight against impunity and guarantee the exercise of civil liberties for both their nationals and migrants. United Nations agencies can make a useful contribution in this regard. France reiterates its support for Libya’s unity, stability and sovereignty. The political impasse has lasted too long. The Security Council must give its full support to the resumption of the political process in Libya, which the people are calling for.

At the outset, I thank Ms. Hanna Tetteh, the Special Representative of the Secretary‑General for Libya, for her important briefing and her tireless efforts, through the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), to support the Libyan political process. I also welcome Mr. Ahmed Albibas, and I welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the sisterly State of Libya, His Excellency Ambassador El‑Sonni. I extend my congratulations on the occasion of the advent of the blessed month of Ramadan. I would like to emphasize the following points. First, the Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its support for the efforts made by the United Nations through the Special Representative of the Secretary‑General. Bahrain stresses the importance of continuing to work towards reaching a comprehensive political solution to the Libyan crisis — one that brings to a close a transitional phase that has lasted longer than it should, opens the path towards parliamentary and presidential elections, achieves the unification of the Government and State institutions, establishes security and stability throughout Libya and meets the aspirations of the brotherly Libyan people. In this context, Bahrain welcomes the structured dialogue convened under the auspices of UNSMIL to develop a shared vision for Libya’s future through consultations involving a broad segment of Libyans. Bahrain also stresses the need to expedite the implementation of the priorities of the road map, particularly the restructuring of the High National Elections Commission and the consideration of amendments to the constitutional and legal frameworks governing the electoral process. In this regard, the Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes the successful elections held last week in several Libyan municipal councils. We also welcome the rounds of municipal elections conducted last year. These represent an important step that paves the way for upcoming political milestones within the road map. The high and encouraging voter turnout reflects the Libyan people’s desire to express their aspirations through the ballot box and to advance the political process in a manner that helps overcome the state of institutional division in their country. Secondly, given the ongoing security complexities in Libya, the Kingdom of Bahrain values the commitment of the Libyan parties to implement the ceasefire agreement concluded more than five years ago. We commend the efforts of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission in supervising its implementation and in monitoring the situation on the ground. We extend our condolences for the death of the Libyan army's Chief of Staff and his escort. We also stress the need to avoid escalation and tensions and the importance of continuing efforts to ensure the withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya. In this regard, the continued presence of informal armed elements fuels the existing climate of tension. Bahrain underscores the importance of upholding State authority, respecting the rule of law and ending manifestations of armed violence, including targeted assassinations, which constitute serious violations under national and international law and pose a direct threat to peace and security. Thirdly, we welcome the efforts of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, to issue implementation guidance for Member States concerning paragraph 14 of resolution 2769 (2025). This resolution permits the reinvestment of frozen Libyan assets into low‑risk deposits in order to protect them from erosion. We look forward to the completion of this step in a manner that serves Libya’s interests and ensures the protection and preservation of these assets for future generations.

I thank Special Representative Tetteh for her briefing, and I welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Libya at today’s meeting. I also listened carefully to the statement delivered by Mr. Albibas. For some time now, despite overall stability, Libya has continued to face numerous challenges, particularly the slow progress of the political process. With the Libyan people still awaiting the restoration of national unity, it is incumbent upon the international community to redouble its efforts to advance a political solution to the Libyan question. I wish to emphasize three points in that regard. First, the political process in Libya must be accelerated. Recently, Special Representative Tetteh has continued to lead the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in advancing the political road map and has successfully convened multiple rounds of structured dialogue. These efforts deserve recognition. At the same time, we note a serious lack of mutual trust among the Libyan parties, as well as the difficult procedures related to the reconstitution of the High National Elections Commission and the revision of the electoral framework. The international community should support all parties in Libya in placing the interests of the State and the people first, engaging in sincere dialogue and consultation and reaching consensus on key electoral issues as soon as possible. UNSMIL should, on the basis of respecting the principled Libyan‑led and ‑owned approach, strengthen its engagement with all Libyan parties and encourage them to move towards each other in order to end the political division. China supports UNSMIL’s continued efforts to advance the structured dialogue and hopes that the Mission will further clarify its next steps, articulate its priorities to the Security Council, seek the Council’s support and guide the dialogue toward tangible results. All parties should firmly support the central mediation role of the United Nations on this matter and encourage other mediation initiatives to align with the United Nations process. Secondly, efforts must be made to consolidate Libya’s security and stability. The current security situation in Libya remains concerning, with sporadic conflicts and violence. The recent assassination of Saif al‑Islam Gaddafi may further exacerbate tensions. China calls on all parties to cease all forms of violence, resolve political differences through peaceful means and avoid any unilateral actions that could trigger new conflicts and undermine the prospects for dialogue. The international community should urge all Libyan parties to fully implement the ceasefire agreement, support the establishment of unified military and security institutions and address entrenched problems, such as the proliferation of militias. External Powers should cease undue interference in Libya, implement the Security Council arms embargo, cut off the illegal flow of weapons to Libya and promote the expeditious withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries so as to foster a climate conducive to Libya’s stability. Thirdly, the shared wealth of the Libyan people must be safeguarded. Libya’s economic hardship is taking a severe toll on the lives of ordinary citizens and is injecting fresh sources of instability into the situation. The international community should prioritize supporting Libya in establishing a unified and transparent fiscal budget and help Libya better manage its oil revenues so that they can be better used to improve people’s livelihoods and development. The Council bears a responsibility to protect Libya’s frozen overseas assets, and any misappropriation or erosion of those assets is unacceptable. The Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, is currently drafting an implementation assistance notice on the reinvestment of cash reserves pursuant to resolution 2769 (2025), and we hope that all members will adopt a constructive approach, fully respect the views of the country concerned, resolve legal differences and swiftly reach consensus so as to safeguard Libya’s legitimate rights and interests. As a good friend of Libya, China reiterates its firm support for Libya’s efforts to uphold its sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity and sincerely hopes that Libya will soon embark on a path of lasting stability and prosperity. China stands ready to continue working tirelessly with the international community towards this end.

Let me thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Tetteh for her briefing and her continued efforts to support the Libyan-led political process. Ms. Tetteh’s efforts are much appreciated. I also thank Mr. Ahmed Albibas for his briefing, and I welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Libya in this meeting. The overall security situation in Libya remains fragile and continues to be a source of concern, including on account of its possible implications for the wider region. The unification of State institutions and the achievement of a comprehensive peace remain elusive. In this context, I wish to underscore the following points. First, we fully support the political road map of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) — one that requires the commitment of all relevant Libyan, regional and international stakeholders in a genuinely Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process. While navigating the political deadlock is challenging, the road map presented by Special Representative Tetteh provides a credible pathway towards stability and prosperity in Libya. The United Nations-led mediation process remains the only viable path towards a lasting political solution based on Libyan ownership and consensus. We also welcome initiatives by Libyan institutions and international partners that encourage dialogue between the two sides as complementing ongoing United Nations efforts towards a comprehensive settlement. It is imperative that conditions for holding free, fair and credible presidential and parliamentary elections be met without further delay. International and regional engagement is equally essential. In this regard, the revived Berlin process remains an appropriate framework for mobilizing coordinated international backing. We welcome its resumption, recalling that the Council, through resolution 2796 (2025), has encouraged its continued evolution and inclusivity. Secondly, economic stability is inseparable from political stabilization. Greece is fully supportive of Libya’s economic viability and the prosperity of the Libyan people. Despite its significant potential, the economy remains in a fragile state, as described by the Special Representative. In this regard, resolution 2769 (2025), allowing the reinvestment of the Libyan Investment Authority’s (LIA) frozen assets under specific conditions, is an important step. We view these assets as a national resource that must be safeguarded and managed transparently for the sole benefit of the Libyan people and future generations. Responding to a legitimate Libyan inquiry, Greece requested the issuance of an implementation assistance notice to expedite and facilitate the implementation of this decision. We look forward to its speedy adoption by the Council. In a similar vein, Greece fully supports Libya’s rightful and legitimate request for a comprehensive audit of the frozen assets of the LIA. Enhanced transparency will strengthen public confidence, support institutional unification and contribute to long-term economic stabilization. Thirdly, sustainable economic recovery cannot be achieved without security. As conditions in Libya remain volatile, the efforts of the Presidential Council, with the critical support of Special Representative Tetteh and UNSMIL, to maintain the ceasefire in Tripoli are welcome. The continued presence of foreign forces and mercenaries clearly undermines Libya’s sovereignty and stability. We reiterate our call for their withdrawal. Similarly, the flow of arms and heavy weaponry fuels tensions and obstructs the unification of institutions. The United Nations arms embargo therefore remains essential. For this reason, Greece, alongside France as a co-penholder, will pursue the renewal of the mandate of the European Union Naval Force Mediterranean Operation IRINI for the maritime enforcement of the United Nations arms embargo. We welcome the constructive cooperation between the Operation and the Libyan authorities, as it is essential for the successful implementation of its mandate. Insecurity generates instability, which is exported beyond Libya’s borders in the form of migration and refugee flows. Such challenges can be tackled only at their source through a comprehensive approach, including security, development and awareness-raising. Greece is acutely aware that far too many desperate people have lost their lives at sea, driven by an elusive hope of a better future. Criminal smuggling networks bear responsibility for these tragedies and must be dismantled. In conclusion, Libya is a key partner of Greece. We will continue to build our diplomatic and economic ties on the basis of good neighbourly relations and international law. Our close cooperation will strengthen stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean. We fully support the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of our neighbour, and we remain confident in the country’s future. We stand firmly behind efforts, most notably the United Nations road map, to support Libya’s path towards a peaceful, prosperous and secure future. Ultimately, such efforts must be shielded from foreign interference and allowed to develop and prosper.

I wish to thank Ms. Hanna Tetteh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya, for her briefing, as well as civil society representative Ahmed Albibas for his insightful presentation on the situation in Libya. I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Libya in this meeting. Let me address three main points. First, Latvia reiterates its full and steadfast support for the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Special Representative Tetteh and the ongoing efforts to implement the political road map aimed at advancing a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process. We commend the staff of UNSMIL for its dedication in carrying out the Mission’s vital role and for the efforts to document and address human rights violations, as shown in yesterday’s report. It has been almost six months since the road map was presented to Libyan stakeholders and the Council. However, political divisions continue to hinder the unification and stability of the country. We stress that the political will of all Libyan actors is essential to move the country towards stability and unity. While holding municipal elections is an encouraging step, agreement on the national electoral framework still has to be reached. The Board of the High National Elections Commission still has to be fully formed as a unified body. These delays, along with the divided judiciary, further undermine the legitimacy of institutions. In this light, we urge the parties to increase their efforts to finally reach the necessary compromise and carry out their tasks. In addition, we encourage continued coordination with all international and regional partners to ensure that mediation efforts are aligned and mutually reinforcing. A coherent approach is essential to prevent parallel tracks, to strengthen Libyan ownership and to advance the implementation of the political road map. United Nations-led mediation is key to revive the political process and achieve a lasting political solution, based on Libyan ownership and consensus. Despite these challenges, UNSMIL and Special Representative of the Secretary-General Tetteh continue to have our full trust and support. Secondly, improved engagement between political actors and civil society is needed to create conditions for credible elections. We welcome the convening of the structured dialogue and its various tracks. It is an opportunity to addresses governance, economic management, security and reconciliation challenges. It can shape the path to long-term stability. We urge all stakeholders, including civil society, women and youth, to remain involved and participate actively in the implementation of the road map. Continued work with government institutions, local authorities and civil society in Libya are essential to unification of the institutions. We hope that the recommendations coming out of the structured dialogue will be seriously considered by the relevant authorities. Thirdly, even with fragile stability, security threats still persist. Political deadlock deepens the economic challenges, as we heard, and increases risks of armed violence. Furthermore, it provides grounds for malign foreign actors to expand their influence, complicating prospects for a sovereign, unified and stable Libya. We call on all parties to fully respect and comply with the United Nations arms embargo on Libya. In this regard, I would like to highlight the important role of the European Union’s Operation IRINI in contributing to the implementation of the arms embargo and combating illicit trafficking. Current security threats and political divisions also limit the ability to address the adverse effects of climate change and their impact on stability in Libya. We stress that unified institutions and decision-making would significantly improve the country’s ability to anticipate, manage and respond to climate shocks, as outlined in the stakeout before this meeting. In conclusion, Latvia supports the determination of the Libyan people to have free and fair national elections: a fundamental step towards a unified State. For far too long, political mistrust has deprived Libyans of the opportunity to make their choice. People in Libya deserve the right to shape their future. People in Libya deserve to be heard. We again urge all the parties involved to finally come together and put the interests of the Libyan people first and put an end to years of political division, armed conflict and economic instability.

We also join colleagues in thanking Special Representative of the Secretary-General Hanna Tetteh for her detailed briefing outlining the complexity of the challenges in Libya, and we appreciate her continued engagement with relevant Libyan stakeholders to advance national reconciliation. We also thank Mr. Ahmed Albibas for his briefing. I would also like to welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Libya in this meeting. Libya is a brotherly country to Pakistan, and we remain steadfast in our support for its sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity. Allow me to highlight five points. First, Pakistan reiterates its firm support for a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process, as it remains the only viable pathway to achieving lasting peace and prosperity in the country, as we also heard again from Special Representative of the Secretary-General Tetteh, this morning. We note the lack of progress in advancing the prioritized initial actions for the implementation of the political road map announced by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General last year, namely the reconstitution of the Board of the High National Elections Commission, as well as the consideration and adoption of amendments to the constitutional and legal framework for elections. At the same time, we acknowledge the work undertaken under the structured dialogue track to foster consensus on creating an environment conducive to long-term stability in Libya. It is important that this process yield practical and implementable recommendations. We underscore the importance of sustained engagement with all Libyan stakeholders to move the political process forward and deliver tangible peace dividends for the Libyan people. We welcome all good faith efforts by regional and international partners in support of the United Nations that promote consolidation and unification. Secondly, on the security track, continued engagement among Libyan stakeholders, supported by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and international partners, has helped to achieve relative calm. Efforts must continue to foster dialogue among all concerned parties to ensure the full implementation of agreed security arrangements and sustained progress in security sector reform. Thirdly, we welcome the mediation efforts by relevant Libyan stakeholders to address issues related to the constitutional judiciary, including the formation of a mediation committee composed of eminent Libyan legal experts. Pakistan encourages the constructive resolution of all issues through meaningful and inclusive dialogue. Fourthly, the economic track remains central to achieving sustainable peace and long-term stability in Libya. Growing international interest in the energy sector, as well as in other key industries, reflects renewed confidence in the country’s significant economic potential. We therefore reiterate the importance of sustained institutional cooperation, particularly towards the adoption of a unified national budget and the strengthening of economic governance. Fifthly, Pakistan reiterates the importance of safeguarding Libya’s frozen assets and ensuring their reinvestment for the benefit of the Libyan people, in line with resolution 2769 (2025). Continued engagement between Libyan institutions and international financial institutions remains essential to support the transparent and effective management of these assets. In this regard, the timely adoption of the Implementation Assistance Notice would constitute an important step towards the implementation of resolution 2769 (2025). In conclusion, we reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to a stable, secure and united Libya, and we support the country’s path towards peace and prosperity.

Panama thanks the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Hanna Tetteh, for her briefing and acknowledges her important leadership at the helm of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). We also thank Mr. Ahmed Albibas for his briefing on behalf of civil society. We acknowledge the presence of the Permanent Representative of Libya at this meeting, who honours us with his participation. Panama recognizes the mandate conferred by the Council on UNSMIL and its role in facilitating a representative and pragmatic political dialogue, an essential tool for advancing towards democratic and unified governance in Libya. We welcome the progress made in the structured national dialogue in Tripoli, which reflects a growing sense of national ownership of the political process. We hope that this space will continue to generate concrete and actionable recommendations, laying the groundwork for credible, inclusive and transparent national elections. In that regard, we welcome the success of the elections held in several municipalities in an orderly, transparent manner, with the active participation of citizens. These are indications of popular will and of the viability of effective elections. While we welcome these advances, we regret the persistence of the political impasse and the lack of progress on other key aspects of the road map, such as necessary adjustments to the electoral framework and the unification of institutions. On the fifteenth anniversary of Muammar Gaddafi’s departure from power, it is regrettable that challenges and pending actions remain. These require greater sustained political will on the part of all Libyan actors, inclusive participation by civil society and consistent and coordinated international support. Panama expresses its deep concern about the recent killing of Mr. Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, highlighting the seriousness of unacceptable politically motivated violence and reaffirming the obligation to ensure justice and accountability in accordance with international law. On the topic of accountability, we appreciate Libya’s acceptance of the voluntary jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court until 2027 and emphasize the importance of sustained cooperation with the Court. Advancing accountability, ending impunity and promoting victim-centred justice are essential elements in ensuring justice for rights violations, preventing future abuses and paving the way for sustainable peace. We are also particularly concerned about the human rights situation of migrants and asylum seekers on Libyan territory. The recent report issued by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNSMIL highlights serious risks of violence, torture, sexual exploitation and forced labour, especially for women and girls. It is essential that the authorities ensure independent investigations into serious violations of international law, human rights and international humanitarian law. Panama believes that it is essential to strengthen the Security Council’s support for the road map facilitated by the United Nations and to ensure that the Mission has the necessary resources to effectively fulfil its mandate, particularly in a context of financial constraints. Furthermore, we reiterate our concern regarding the administration of Libyan sovereign wealth funds, which must be transparent, cost-effective and subject to timely and adequate accountability, for the benefit of the Libyan people, given the direct impact it could have on the country’s deteriorating economic situation and financial stability. Panama urges all Libyan actors to engage in good faith with the political process, actively participate in the road map and cease all unilateral actions that could fracture the process to the point of no return. It is essential to rebuild trust in institutions and, together with citizens, prioritize the national interest, overcome divisions and fulfil the commitments made to consolidate stability, national reconciliation and unity in the country. Panama reiterates its support for an inclusive and results-oriented political process, with the conviction that only through political commitment, effective electoral participation and the consolidation of legitimate and functional institutions will it be possible to achieve lasting peace and the well-being of the Libyan people.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, namely the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia and my own country, Liberia (A3). We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for her insightful briefing. We have listened attentively to the civil society representative’s remarks, and we thank him for his four-point proposal on the path forward. We welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Libya in this meeting. At the outset, the A3 conveys its unwavering support for Libya’s sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity and political independence. We are convened today to consider the findings of the strategic review of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), which remains a critical stabilizing presence. But, as we have heard, it has been constrained by national fragmentation and shifting geopolitical dynamics. In that regard, we note the Secretary-General’s assessment that the current status quo of fragile stability is not sustainable, and we believe that the lack of renewed political momentum risks the de facto division of the State and, further, the insecurity of the wider region. On the political front, we recognize the complexities involved and note that some agreed timelines related to the electoral track have not yet been met and may be further affected by recent developments or lack thereof. In that context, the A3 condemns the 3 February assassination of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi at his residence. This blatant act of violence risks further undermining efforts towards a credible and inclusive political transition in Libya. We extend our condolences to his family and all those affected. Such incidents underscore the urgent need for all parties to redouble their efforts to de-escalate and engage in dialogue. We call upon the Libyan authorities to uphold the rule of law and to ensure that the circumstances surrounding this killing are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law. Despite these challenges, we commend the determination of many within the relevant Libyan institutions who are striving to advance progress. We are further encouraged by the recent peaceful conduct of local elections in 119 municipalities, including the election of a second woman mayor, as has just been reported. This, we must note, is a rare example of democratic practice and progress. We reaffirm our support for the Special Representative’s road map aimed at restoring a realistic pathway to unity through national elections and structured dialogue. The A3 supports the Special Representative’s renewed efforts to encourage all parties to remain engaged in a spirit of compromise and responsibility, keeping the hopes and aspirations of the Libyan people at the forefront. Regarding the security track, we recognize that progress on the reunification of security institutions remains elusive in the absence of a strategy agreed upon by Libyan actors. We emphasize that stabilizing the security environment is a critical precondition for the political process, and we urgently call for a transition to a politically sensitive approach that facilitates direct dialogue among all actors to unify the country’s security institutions. We reiterate our demand for the immediate withdrawal of all foreign forces, foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya. We also support the recommendation that UNSMIL rebalance its geographic presence, particularly by expanding its presence in Benghazi and the Fazzan region, to ensure that the Mission is representative of all Libyans. On the economic front, the A3 emphasizes that the integrity and independence of Libya’s core economic institutions — specifically the Central Bank, the National Oil Corporation and the National Audit Bureau — must be preserved. We note the challenges facing macroeconomic stability, which have been described for us here in painful detail by the Special Representative; those challenges include the significant foreign exchange deficit. We also note the conclusion of the second in-person formal session of the economic track within the structured dialogue, which reflects the strong desire of many Libyans to contribute meaningfully to their country’s future and to balance State-building efforts with economic reform. Furthermore, the A3 once again expresses its concern about the ongoing erosion of Libya’s frozen assets due to mismanagement by certain financial institutions. We demand full accountability and reparation in this regard. The A3 reiterates that the assets are frozen for the purpose of preserving their value and benefiting the Libyan people and not the institutions holding the funds. The A3 will continue to work towards ensuring that the views of the Libyans are taken into account in the issuance of the implementation assistance notice in order to enable the Libyan Investment Authority to reinvest its frozen cash reserves as mandated by paragraph 14 of resolution 2769 (2025). In conclusion, the road ahead is definitely not easy, but with continued engagement, cooperation and shared commitment to peace, we believe that a stable and inclusive future for Libya is achievable. The time has come for the Council to move beyond tactical crisis management and align behind a cohesive strategy that restores national legitimacy. We must empower UNSMIL to shift from a reactive posture to one that facilitates a definitive, Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political settlement.

I thank the presidency for convening this briefing, and I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary- General, Ms. Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, and Mr. Ahmed Albibas, Chairman of the Moomken Organization for Awareness and Media, for the information provided. I also extend my greetings to the Permanent Representative of Libya, who is with us at this meeting. The situation in Libya is of the utmost importance to the Council, and any analysis must focus on supporting a political process led by the Libyans themselves and aimed at holding national elections. The situation is also highly relevant to regional stability and the credibility of the processes under United Nations auspices. For Colombia, a country that is on its own path to peace with the valuable support of the Council, strengthening multilateral conflict resolution mechanisms is a priority. As this is the first time that my country has spoken on this matter as an elected member of the Council, I would like to point out that Colombia welcomes the Council’s unity on the need for an inclusive process led by Libyan institutions themselves, making it possible to achieve progress towards holding elections and consolidating institutional reunification. Colombia joins in that call. On that basis, Colombia expresses its support for the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and for efforts to provide the Libyan people with peacebuilding support. In that regard, we highlight the strategic recommendation to strengthen the Mission’s presence in the east and south of the country, in line with the strategic review of UNSMIL. In our view, a more balanced presence in the territory is essential to effectively support political and institutional progress. Furthermore, Colombia urges the parties to commit to the road map presented by the Special Representative. In this regard, we highlight the recent progress made in the UNSMIL-facilitated structured dialogue, whose initial sessions are already yielding technical inputs on governance. These are key steps in creating an environment conducive to the holding of elections. Similarly, Colombia expresses concern about the fact that the High National Elections Commission has not yet filled the remaining vacancies. We urge the competent authorities to move forward with these appointments, as they are essential steps to ensure the technical and legal preparedness necessary to hold credible elections and to strengthen the path towards institutional unification. Colombia considers it essential for the Council to continue to support peace efforts in Libya and remain vigilant to the risks of escalation, which threaten the stability achieved since the 2020 ceasefire. In conclusion, Colombia expresses its firm support for a broad, inclusive and fully Libyan-led dialogue process in Libya and for the country’s unity and territorial integrity.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Tetteh and Mr. Albibas for their briefings, and I welcome the Permanent Representative of Libya to the Council. This year marks 15 years since the uprising against the former regime. Many things have changed since then. However, Libya still faces a prolonged political stalemate, security challenges and economic instability. We reiterate our appreciation to the Special Representative for her work and highlight the importance of continued support for the efforts of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya to move the political process forward and achieve lasting peace and security in Libya. The launch of the structured dialogues, as one of the core pillars of the political road map, is a positive step in the right direction. Denmark welcomes the dialogues on various tracks and hopes that they provide concrete recommendations to build consensus for Libya’s future. Denmark urges all Libyan stakeholders to engage in good faith to advance the implementation of the road map towards inclusive presidential and parliamentary elections. We also welcome the steps taken by the Libyan institutions, with the support of international mediators, to attempt to promote stability and encourage dialogue between the eastern and western parts of the country. It is key to ensure that these initiatives complement and accompany ongoing United Nations efforts aimed at reviving a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process. We remain concerned about the volatile security situation. The continued perpetration of serious human rights violations and international crimes against civilians across multiple regions of Libya is deeply alarming and must be brought to an end immediately. On the economic front, the management of resources in Libya remains negatively affected by political and institutional divisions, weak governance and illicit practices. We reiterate our call for the unification of the national budget and the reform of oil revenue governance to benefit all Libyans. Furthermore, Libya is among the world’s top ten climate-vulnerable and water-stressed countries, with severe impacts on livelihoods and a heightened risk of intercommunal tensions. We therefore encourage the authorities, with the support of the international community, to promote climate-resilient livelihoods and to prioritize the reconstruction and sustainable management of water infrastructure. In conclusion, it is vital that all actors work towards reaching a comprehensive political solution, as mandated by the Council, so as to bring an end to the transition phase, reunify State institutions and deliver elections that are long overdue.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of the United Kingdom. I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Tetteh and Mr. Albibas for their insightful briefings, and we welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Libya. Today, I will focus on three core elements for lasting peace in Libya: meaningful engagement in the political process, the inclusion of civil society and the importance of political security. First, the United Kingdom reiterates its strong support for the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in advancing an inclusive political process. We urge all Libyan actors to participate seriously, constructively and without delay in the United Nations-facilitated process. We welcome the structured dialogue, as it gives voice to a wide cross section of Libyan society. However, we regret that certain Libyan stakeholders have not substantively engaged in the dialogue. The continued failure of key Libyan stakeholders to engage meaningfully in the political process only heightens the risk of instability. As we have heard today, including from Mr. Albibas, Libyans continue to experience the costs of inaction — falling living standards, increased exposure to climate risks and an economy struggling without a unified budget. Secondly, we commend the efforts of Libya’s civil society to stand up for the country’s future. Restoring civic space and ensuring the meaningful inclusion and political participation of women, youth, minorities and persons with disabilities are critical to the success of Libya’s political transition and its future resilience. Civil society must be able to carry out its work safely within a fair and predictable legal framework and free from threats or arbitrary measures. Thirdly, in the light of the recent killing of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, we underline that political violence has no place in Libya’s future. Such violence only deepens Libya’s challenges. We welcome the focus Libyan actors have placed on reconciliation in the aftermath and on maintaining calm at a sensitive moment. In conclusion, the status quo is not sustainable. The Libyan people have waited far too long for unified governance that reflects their aspirations for stability, security and prosperity. We urge all Libyan actors to put citizens’ interests first, to engage fully with the reforms outlined in the Special Representative’s road map and to recommit to a credible political process capable of delivering the lasting peace that Libyans deserve. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of Libya.

At the outset, allow me to take this opportunity to welcome the countries that joined the Security Council earlier this year: Bahrain, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Latvia and Colombia. I wish them all success. I would also like to thank Ms. Hanna Tetteh for her briefing, of which we have taken note, and Mr. Ahmed Albibas for his briefing as a representative of civil society and of a wide segment of the Libyan population, which is facing great hardship. Today marks 15 years since the start of the 17 February revolution and 15 years since the Council placed Libya under Chapter VII, imposing sanctions under the pretext of protecting civilians at a time when the Libyan people were demanding freedom, change and a life of dignity. Now, however, we remain trapped in a vicious circle, which is being compounded by foreign interference and the proxy war and has seen countless international envoys and initiatives, whereas our resources are being plundered and our funds and assets are being manipulated under the cover of sanctions. Accordingly, we say to Council members that it is time for the Council to mend its ways. It must either actively support the will of the Libyan people to take charge of their own affairs or leave us alone after the failure of the past years. Having listened to Ms. Tetteh’s briefing and her announcement regarding the structured dialogue, we reiterate the urgent need to move from a phase of protracted consultations to one of clear and binding results, ensuing in practical and tangible outcomes within a set time frame. We commend the efforts of all those participating in the structured dialogue and their dedication to resolving the various issues. In this regard, we also underscore the importance of involving all political leaders and forces in these processes, without exclusion, and the need to consult them in order to ensure genuine effectiveness, the accountability of all parties and real support for Libyan leadership and ownership of the solution. We emphasize that any political process, including the existing structured dialogue, must be explicitly aimed at ending all transitional phases without replicating them or replacing them with new ones. This should lead to general elections according to a specific and clear timetable that is based on practical guarantees and enforceable laws and grounded in respect for the Libyan Political Agreement, the outcomes of the Geneva process and the relevant Security Council resolutions. If the international community is truly committed to supporting the electoral process in Libya, these efforts can commence forthwith through the establishment of joint national committees consisting of the relevant national institutions throughout the country, subject to international and United Nations oversight. These committees would be responsible for preparing the electoral process and providing the necessary logistics and security so as to ensure the integrity and transparency of the elections. The recent municipal elections, which were successfully held, serve as a prime example. This popular demand for elections has become so clear and widespread that even the legislative body and its associated laws, which had stalled the electoral process, recently alluded to the possibility of holding general elections through these joint committees, thereby dispensing with the requirement for a new Government to oversee the process — a thorny issue that remains unresolved in the laws emanating from the 6+6 Joint Committee and has delayed elections and obstructed a return to the ballot box and the will of the people. We urge the United Nations Support Mission in Libya to see this phase through to completion as soon as possible. A format should be found that fosters national consensus on a constitutional framework or — and why not — the holding of a referendum on the draft constitution. Thereafter, on the basis of consensus, valid electoral laws should be enacted for the holding of general elections, thereby strengthening the Libyan people’s trust in the seriousness of the process and ending the current and vicious cycle deadlock. There are also demands for an end to parallel spending, which has cast a heavy shadow on the financial and economic situation in the country. One of the most prominent reasons for this was the recurring and rapid exacerbation of the foreign exchange rate crisis. Each time, we have seen sharp waves of inflation and the erosion of the purchasing power of citizens, despite the efforts made by the Central Bank of Libya and the Ministry of the Economy to address the imbalances and control the market. Nevertheless, continued spending outside approved frameworks remains a major factor in the pressure on reserves and monetary policy. This makes the consolidation and rationalization of expenditure an urgent necessity to protect economic stability and livelihoods. Perhaps the most recent of these dangerous measures is the parallel Government’s opening of monthly appropriations in the absence of a unified budget. Therefore, we call on everyone to support the agreement reached recently to establish the Joint Development Committee, which aims to organize development expenditure. When talking about the economy, we have been emphasizing that the future of the relationship between Libya and its international partners should be based on respect for national sovereignty and on opening horizons for cooperation and economic enterprises instead of negative interventions that would destabilize Libya and the region. In this context, we refer to the success of the Libya Energy and Economy Summit, organized by the Government in the capital, Tripoli, towards the end of last January. The event saw the wide participation of many international companies and stakeholders. Major investment agreements were announced in the oil and energy sector, including agreements involving foreign investments estimated at $20 billion, with net returns expected to exceed $370 billion in the medium and long term. In this context and among its efforts to support stability, the Government and the security and armed forces are continuing their efforts to control the situation by strengthening the authority of the State and consolidating the rule of law. During the past period, we have observed remarkable discipline in the conduct of the police and security services. Clear efforts are being made to investigate and address the armed demonstrations that have prevailed in the past, and there is gradual progress towards the reinforcement of security and the strengthening of stability. Libya is going through a delicate phase that requires the utmost responsibility and self-control, especially in the light of the efforts made to promote the national reconciliation process. Unfortunately, whenever we take a step towards reconciliation and building trust among Libyans, such as the African Union-led efforts to launch the National Reconciliation Conference or as happened with the launch of the Libyan National Rally in Tripoli early this month, and because of the length of the crisis, events take place that remind us of the current fragility and the risk of slipping into a mindset of violence. There are incidents caused by hidden hands that seek to destabilize and deepen the social rift. The latest of these was the killing of citizen Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, may God have mercy on him, in an unfortunate and despicable crime. Despite political differences associated with this figure, many Libyans and leaders of all orientations expressed their condemnation of this incident. We condemn the logic of assassinations and forced disappearances and any resort to violence against opponents, whether now or at any time. In this context, the Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation into the incident. He dispatched a specialized team to gather evidence and uncover the circumstances to underscore the State’s commitment to the principle of accountability and the rule of law. The competent authorities also fulfilled their duty to protect the right of the relatives of the deceased to observe funeral rites, respecting humanitarian and social considerations and preserving civil peace. In conclusion, we affirm that we all have confidence in our people and that Libya will return strong. Libyans do not lack a desire for peace or democracy, but they need a clear political process that reflects their free will and that ends the transitional phase rather than sustains it, with international support that respects national sovereignty and that does not prolong the crisis or recycle it through negative external interventions. Libyans want to end all foreign presence on their soil and to build an international partnership free of commands and dictates. The protracted crisis is exacerbating divisions and everything that is happening today is a symptom of the worsening situation and the failure to address the root causes of the crisis, the most important of which is the political divide. All the challenges mentioned in the statements delivered today, whether economic or related to security, immigration or counter-terrorism, are just symptoms of the underlying problem, which is political division. This will only be addressed through elections, an end to the current divisions and the restoration of power to the people so that they can determine their future.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion on the subject.