Libya, a North African nation, has been divided by competing administrations since the removal of its former leader, Muammar Gaddafi, in 2011. In a move towards unity, the United Nations proposed a roadmap in August 2025 that would guide the country towards general elections and the formation of a unified government over a span of 12 to 18 months.
Mohamed Younis Al-Menfi, representing the internationally recognized Government of National Unity (GNU), addressed the situation, emphasizing that Libya is not a battleground but a country with rich resources and young people holding the potential to build a modern state. The support from the United Nations is pivotal as Libya seeks to overcome its crisis and transition to stability and democracy.
Despite setbacks and threats, Al-Menfi expressed that the Libyan people remain hopeful and resilient in their pursuit of a political resolution. He pointed out that previous models and mechanisms have been ineffective in matching the complexity of the social and political situation in Libya, affecting the trust of the Libyan people in proposed solutions.
Al-Menfi introduced a clear political vision that rests on four key pillars. First, there is a strong emphasis on restoring national sovereignty and ending all forms of foreign interference. Second, Libya’s sovereign institutions, particularly in security, defense, and finance, need to be unified through professional mechanisms without any polarization or quotas. The third pillar focuses on the Libyan people’s right to freely choose who serves them through free and fair elections, leading to the establishment of a new constitution. Finally, the fourth pillar marks an end to the current transitional period, highlighting the importance of self-determination and resistance against any external influence.
Al-Menfi asserted that despite the difficulties, the authorities have managed to sustain a stable environment, underscoring that the integrity, sovereignty, and social cohesion of Libya are paramount and non-negotiable.
Source: https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2025/09/1165959
