Title: Libya takes step toward peace: Rival factions agree to work with UN
Libya’s long-standing political tensions may finally find a path to resolution, as the country’s rival factions have agreed to work with the United Nations in an effort to end the ongoing political impasse. Talks in Bouznika, near the Moroccan capital Rabat, resulted in an agreement between the two rival legislative bodies, one based in the east and the other in the west, to work with a UN mission to hold elections and end years of political deadlock.
Representatives of the Tripoli-based High Council of State in the west and the Benghazi-based House of Representatives in the east agreed to form a national unity government and launch institutional, financial and security reforms. The goal is clear: to foster reconciliation and restore stability in the country.
As part of this effort, the UN Political Mission in Libya, known as UNSMIL, plans to establish an advisory committee to develop options to resolve outstanding electoral issues and establish a roadmap for holding elections. The committee will be composed of experts and respected figures representing different political, social and cultural currents in Libya.
While the political crisis in Libya stems in part from the failure to hold elections on 24 December 2021 and Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah’s refusal to step down, several Libyan political actors and their international supporters are now showing willingness to find a way out of the impasse. Heightened polarization and outstanding electoral issues threaten Libya’s national unity and territorial integrity, while rivalry between armed groups for control of territory and resources undermines the country’s stability.
According to UN Representative Stephanie Koury, the key to success lies in stability, Libyan ownership, and strengthening institutions and the inclusiveness of the country’s political and cultural forces. In this complex context, it is essential that the entire international community support the efforts led by the UN to facilitate dialogue and the search for solutions in Libya.
While the peace process finally appears to be making significant progress, it remains crucial that all stakeholders maintain their commitment to the peaceful resolution of Libya’s disputes. The prospect of a unified, stable and prosperous Libya is within reach, provided that political will and international support remain constant in this common quest for peace and reconciliation.