STORY
The United Kingdom has expressed deep concern over the destabilising actions of Libyan security actors and armed groups, highlighting issues such as unlawful detentions, kidnappings, and attacks on humanitarian organisations. These concerns were raised during a statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, the UK’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, at a Security Council meeting focused on Libya. Ambassador Woodward emphasised the alarming trajectory of Libya’s economy, noting the absence of a unified budget and oversight mechanisms. She warned that the current levels of public spending risk rapidly diminishing the nation’s wealth. The competition for state resources is placing significant pressure on Libya’s institutions and could potentially fuel renewed conflict.
The UK also highlighted reports of unlawful and arbitrary detentions, kidnappings, imprisonment without due process, and assassination attempts by Libyan security actors and armed groups. Ambassador Woodward stressed the need for accountability to support civic space and trust in Libya’s law enforcement. She specifically mentioned the recent closure of humanitarian organisations’ offices and the detention of their employees as particularly troubling. The UK urged Libyan authorities to work collaboratively with international NGOs and resolve differences through dialogue, recognising the indispensable role of humanitarian organisations in supporting Libya, including addressing concerns about illegal migration.
Furthermore, the UK underscored the urgent need for progress on Libya’s political track. Ambassador Woodward called for a comprehensive and inclusive political process to establish sound economic governance, uphold the rule of law, ensure accountability, and combat corruption. She reaffirmed the UK’s strong support for the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and commended Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) Hannah Tetteh for her leadership. The UK urged all Libyan actors to engage constructively with the UN’s efforts and the recommendations of the Advisory Committee, viewing this as a real opportunity to chart a path towards the peace, stability, and prosperity that the Libyan people deserve.