The United Nations will assemble a technical committee of Libyan experts to address contentious issues and pave the way for long-awaited national elections, the acting head of the U.N. Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Stephanie Koury, announced on Sunday.
Libya’s political process has remained in limbo since the collapse of elections initially scheduled for December 2021, which were derailed by disputes over the eligibility of key candidates.
In a video statement, Koury explained that the committee would focus on resolving challenges related to electoral laws. It will also explore measures to expedite elections, including guarantees, assurances, and a definitive timeline for implementation.
The Government of National Unity (GNU), led by Prime Minister Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, was established through a U.N.-backed process in 2021. However, the parliament has since rejected its legitimacy, while Dbeibah has insisted he will not relinquish power until national elections are held.
Libya has endured instability since a NATO-backed uprising in 2011, with the country splitting into eastern and western factions in 2014, each controlled by rival administrations. Despite widespread calls for elections from major political actors, many Libyans remain doubtful of their intentions, suspecting reluctance to cede authority.
Koury emphasized that UNSMIL will continue its efforts to support the unification of Libya’s military and security institutions while working alongside partners to advance national reconciliation.
