Elections, Dialogue, and Unity: Libya’s Struggle to End Institutional Divisions

Libya is engaging in renewed diplomatic efforts to establish a unified government and revive elections. Key meetings in Cairo and the formation of UNSMIL’s Advisory Committee illustrate a concerted push toward political resolution. However, challenges involving deep-rooted divisions and external pressures persist, requiring genuine commitment from Libyan factions for true progress to be achieved.

Libya is at a pivotal moment as various political factions and international mediators strive to establish a unified government and revive the electoral process. Since early 2025, diplomatic efforts to end the country’s political stalemate have intensified, led by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) along with Libyan stakeholders, focusing on critical compromises regarding election laws and executive authority.

The Cairo meeting held in February 2025, attended by members of the House of Representatives (HoR) and the High Council of State (HCS), marked significant progress. International actors have expressed support for the outcomes of this meeting; however, entrenched divisions and conflicting interests continue to obstruct Libya’s transition towards a stable political framework.

On February 4, 2025, UNSMIL announced the formation of an Advisory Committee comprising 20 legal and constitutional experts. This committee is tasked with developing viable proposals to resolve contentious electoral issues, emphasizing the urgency of its mission in facilitating democracy in Libya, as its mandate is bound by time constraints.

There has been a notable increase in diplomatic engagement aimed at advancing Libya’s political transition since early 2025. Various international ambassadors and envoys have actively participated in dialogues with Libyan representatives, demonstrating a robust commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution. During a United Nations Security Council meeting on February 19, 2025, Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo underscored the need for Libyan leaders to prioritize national over personal interests while supporting the electoral process.

From February 11 to 25, 2025, Cairo hosted an expanded consultative meeting with 96 HoR members and 75 HCS members to discuss political progress and address institutional fragmentation. The meeting led to a communiqué reaffirming Libya’s sovereignty in its political affairs and underscoring the necessity of continuous dialogue between both councils while implementing prior agreements regarding executive authority restructuring.

Despite these advancements, Libya faces ongoing challenges, notably external pressures that complicate its internal political landscape. Allegations indicate that Egyptian authorities and the HoR attempted to influence the inclusion of specific clauses on government restructuring during the Cairo discussions. HCS rapporteur Belgassim Dabrez raised concerns about such interferences and emphasized the constitutional adoption before any elections can occur.

While observers recognize that international initiatives are set to facilitate Libya’s political progress, actual commitment from Libyan stakeholders remains crucial for their success. The establishment of the UNSMIL Advisory Committee appears beneficial; however, its outcomes depend on transparency, inclusivity, and the factions’ political will to execute the recommendations. Additionally, regional dynamics, particularly from Egypt, illustrate the delicate interplay between external assistance and Libya’s sovereignty.

Libya stands on the verge of reshaping its governance structure and achieving stable executive authority. The collaborative endeavors of UNSMIL, the proactive involvement of Libyan political entities, and the careful navigation of external influences will define Libya’s trajectory towards unity and stability. Thus, ensuring that the political process is led by Libyans while supported by the international community is essential for lasting peace and stability.

In conclusion, Libya’s quest for a unified government and stable executive authority is on a crucial path forward. The ongoing diplomatic efforts, including the formation of UNSMIL’s Advisory Committee and recent meetings in Cairo, signify progress amidst challenges. The commitment of Libyan stakeholders and balanced external influences will determine the success of the political process and the nation’s journey towards sustainable democracy.

Original Source: libyaobserver.ly