United Nations in Libya

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Libya:

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21 May 2026

UN Libya and Libyan media strengthen annual dialogue on 2025 results

Tripoli, 12 May 2026 — For the second consecutive year, the United Nations in Libya convened a media roundtable at the Libyan News Agency in Tripoli to discuss the UN’s cooperation in Libya in light of the recently published 2025 Annual Results Report with Libyan journalists. In addition to creating a better awareness of the UN Country Team cooperation in Libya, this second roundtable also forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement with national media and promote informed public dialogue on Libya’s development priorities. Hosted by the Libyan News Agency, under the leadership of its Chairman, Mr. Abdulbasit Abu Daya, the roundtable brought together more than 30 journalists from television, radio, print, online and other media platforms. The choice of venue carried particular significance, reflecting the Libyan News Agency’s role as one of Libya’s long-standing national media institutions.Opening the session, Mr. Abu Daya welcomed the continued engagement between the United Nations and Libyan media, emphasizing the important role of national media institutions in promoting transparency, widening public access to accurate information, and helping prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation. He noted that constructive dialogue between journalists and international partners is essential to support informed public debate on issues affecting communities across Libya.In her opening remarks, Ulrika Richardson, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, highlighted the importance of direct engagement with the media community across Libya.“This roundtable creates a unique space for a direct and constructive dialogue between Libyan journalists and representatives of UN Agencies working in Libya,” she said. SRSG/RC Richardson also underscored the fundamental value of a free media and a professional cadre of journalists not only as an essential dimension of any vibrant society but also to combat violence in terms of hate speech and to ensure safe civic space. The roundtable focused on what UN-Libya cooperation means in practice: results for people, institutions, municipalities and communities across the country. It also provided an opportunity for journalists to ask questions, seek clarification and discuss how UN support in 2025 contributed to Libyan-led priorities across governance, economic recovery, social services, climate resilience, internal displacement, migration, women’s participation and youth engagement.The discussion was facilitated by Ziad Naboulsi, UNFPA Representative, and included contributions from members of the UN Country Team, including Sophie Kemkhadze, UNDP Resident Representative; Mohammad Fayyazi, UNICEF Representative; Nicoletta Giordano, IOM Chief of Mission; and Isadora De Moura, Head of Programme at UN Women.The presentation featured key results achieved in 2025 under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which guides UN development cooperation with Libya from 2023 to 2027. It focused on how these results translate into practical support for people, stronger institutions, more responsive municipalities and more resilient communities.The results highlighted included access to primary healthcare services for 520,000 people; measles vaccination for 313,967 children; improved climate-resilient water systems and restored water access for more than 642,600 people; and support for more than 2,200 young people and entrepreneurs to strengthen vocational, business and digital marketing skills. The presentation also highlighted municipal elections held in 59 municipalities in 2025, with UN-supported local electoral processes reaching 119 municipalities by 2026, marking an important step in strengthening local representation, civic participation and municipal governance. It also covered durable solutions for internally displaced families and returnees, women’s participation, and support to vulnerable migrants and refugees. Journalists raised questions on several areas of public interest, including the allocation of UN resources, support for migration management and health services, the UN’s engagement across different regions of Libya, and the practical implications of climate and water resilience efforts for communities facing water scarcity and infrastructure challenges.Ms. Richardson emphasized that the report should be understood not only through statistics, but through the human impact behind them.“Behind every number and every result, there is a human story: a child accessing education or healthcare, a young person finding new opportunities, a community regaining an essential service, or a Libyan institution becoming better equipped to plan and respond,” she said. The 2025 Annual Results Report reflects the collective work of UN entities in Libya, in partnership with Libyan ministries and institutions, municipalities, civil society, communities and international partners. UN-supported initiatives contributed to results across six areas: peace and governance; sustainable economic development; social and human capital development; climate change, water and the environment; durable solutions for internally displaced persons; and migration management.Beyond the presentation of results, the roundtable also focused on the need to strengthen engagement with national media — not only to support reporting on the work of the United Nations in Libya, but also to encourage joint advocacy around shared priorities, including transparency, access to accurate information, and support for an independent and professional Libyan media and journalistic corps.Following the formal session, journalists had the opportunity to conduct short interviews with UN representatives during an informal engagement session on the side of the main event.By bringing UN representatives and Libyan journalists together through a regular dialogue, the roundtable supports informed and constructive discussion with the family of UN agencies in Libya on national development and humanitarian priorities, while raising awareness of UN cooperation across Libya among the public.

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14 May 2026

The family war could not break

When Bashara fled Nyala in Sudan in 2024 to Libya, he carried what mattered most: his family.A mother.
A father.
Four children.Like many Sudanese families forced to flee war, they left behind conflict, violence, and a future that was no longer safe for their children. Their hope was simple to find safety, and keep the family together.For a while, they managed.Until one night in 2025, everything changed.On their way home during Ramadan, a speeding car struck the family.Bashara survived.His wife did not.She was five months pregnant.Today, Bashara is raising four children alone.In a small home on the outskirts of Tripoli, life now moves around routines he never imagined doing by himself. He wakes up early to prepare meals, checks on the children constantly, and works whenever he can, to provide for them. He has even started teaching his eldest daughter how to cook simple meals — just in case.“My children are my whole life… everything I have is in them.” The children still struggle with the loss of their mother. At night, sleep does not come easily. During the day, they stay close to their father, afraid to be apart from him for too long.Sometimes, when he leaves for work, they ask to come with him.Other times, they simply wait for him to return.“They don’t feel comfortable without me,” he says. For Bashara, fatherhood has become both responsibility and survival. He cooks. He cleans. He works long hours when work is available. Some days, he turns down opportunities because he does not want to leave the children alone.And, every morning, he tries again.“I go out and try, again and again,” he says. “For them.” Across Libya, many Sudanese families forced to flee war are trying to rebuild their lives while carrying grief, uncertainty, and responsibility for their children. For many parents, the decision to flee was driven by one thing above all else: keeping their children safe.Every child has the right to safety.
The right to grow up protected.
The right to remain with family.Yet for many displaced families, safety remains fragile. As hardship grows and options remain limited, some families risk dangerous journeys in search of stability and protection.This International Day of Families, Bashara’s story is a reminder of the strength families hold onto even after unimaginable loss.It is also a reminder that families forced to flee cannot carry these burdens alone.UNHCR continues to call for an end to the war in Sudan, greater support for countries, including Libya, hosting those forced to flee, and expanded safe and legal pathways so families are not forced to risk their lives searching for safety.Because no family should have to choose between war, separation, or danger to protect their children.

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14 May 2026

After years of displacement, Akhyar is beginning again through a humanitarian corridor to Italy

At a crowded departure centre in Tripoli, Akhyar sat quietly holding a small folder containing the documents that could change her life. Around her, families prepared luggage; children moved between chairs, and UNHCR team called out names.For Akhyar, 33, this moment came after years of loss, uncertainty, and separation.“I just want to change my life,” she says softly. “So maybe one day I can bring my daughters back to me.”Akhyar fled Eritrea years ago after losing her husband. Later, persecution and instability forced her to continue moving across borders, eventually reaching Libya in 2024. Along the way, she became separated from her two daughters, who remain far from her today.“Without my daughters, I have nothing,” she says.For years, she lived with uncertainty, depending on support from others while trying to survive displacement alone. Despite everything she experienced, one thing never changed: her hope of rebuilding her life and reuniting with her children.Today, Akhyar is among 131 refugees departing Libya to Italy through the humanitarian corridor programme supported by the Government of Italy, and with coordination and support from the Libyan authoritiesFor refugees like Akhyar, pathways like this offer something rare after years of instability: the possibility to move forward safely and with dignity.As she prepared to leave, Akhyar spoke about the phone call she hopes to make once she arrives safely.“My mother worries about me all the time,” she says with a small smile. “I want to call her and tell her I arrived safely.”Before boarding, she paused for a moment and repeated the wish that carried her through years of displacement:“I still believe I will see my daughters again.”

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07 May 2026

Strengthening Libya’s Institutional Capacity to Address Corruption and Money Laundering

UNODC, in partnership with Libya’s Administrative Control Authority (ACA), is continuing technical cooperation under the European Union–funded project “Building Libya’s National Capacity to Prevent and Combat Corruption and Money Laundering.” Building on the achievements of the first phase, Phase II focuses on strengthening the capacity of national institutions to prevent, detect, investigate, and adjudicate corruption and money laundering cases. The phase also prioritizes enhanced coordination among key stakeholders, reinforced legal and operational frameworks, and preventive approaches, including targeted engagement with Libyan youth to promote ethical conduct and encourage the reporting of corrupt practices within communities and the private sector. The activities which witnessed high level coordination between Mr. Abdullah Qaderbouh, Chairman of the Administrative Control Authority, Mr. Ibrahim Abdulkarim Ali, Chair of the Supreme Committee Supervising the National Strategy for Performance, Oversight, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030), Dr. Tariq Sonnan, Head of UNODC Programme Office in Libya, and Mr. Vicenta Selles, Attaché / Programme Manager Delegation of the European Union to Libya to ensure that they aligned with national priorities and international standards, and stakeholders’ interests. The first quarter of 2026 marked an active start to Phase II implementation, with targeted technical activities addressing multiple dimensions of corruption and related financial crimes. These engagements combined practical capacity-building with strategic coordination, reflecting a comprehensive approach to strengthening Libya’s anti-corruption response. Enhancing Financial Investigations through Experiential Learning Strengthening the effectiveness of corruption investigations is a key priority. Earlier in 2026, UNODC organized a two-day workshop in Tripoli on parallel financial investigations in corruption and related money laundering cases, in coordination with the Administrative Control Authority (ACA) and the High Committee for Oversight of the National Strategy for Performance Monitoring, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030). The workshop brought together representatives from the ACA, law enforcement bodies, and investigation authorities. Through interactive, scenario-based sessions, participants learned to identify emerging money laundering typologies and apply adaptive investigative techniques, including financial tracing and evidence collection. Particular emphasis was placed on asset recovery as a means of depriving offenders of the proceeds of crime. Practical exercises were reinforced by the presentation of regional best practices from Egypt and Lebanon, along with guidance on applying global anti-money laundering standards. Advancing the Implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy Alongside capacity-building for investigations, UNODC supported national efforts to advance the implementation of Libya’s anti-corruption framework. In collaboration with the ACA and the High Committee for Oversight of the National Strategy (2025–2030), UNODC organized two workshops in April 2026, each lasting 2 days, to operationalize the National Strategy. The workshops brought together 40 representatives including 10 women from the ACA and the High Committee the High Committee for Oversight of the National Strategy for Performance Monitoring, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030). Discussions focused on translating strategic objectives into actionable implementation mechanisms, including the development of key performance indicators and monitoring and evaluation methodologies. Participants examined approaches to strengthening integrity and transparency in public institutions, assessing performance in reducing corruption, and reinforcing principles of good governance across the public sector. In alignment with the objectives of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and relevant international frameworks, UNODC and ACA have organized a two-day workshop in the same month to enhance integrity and develop codes of conduct for the private sector. The workshop aimed to discuss UNODC’s draft guideline that shapes the way forward for the adoption of the code of conduct for businesses in the private sector. In this respect, sessions have highlighted the importance of goals, objectives, and principles that underpin codes of conduct. Similarly, representatives from ACA and businesses deliberated on how international best practices could be implemented at the national level. They proposed several amendments to the draft guideline to ensure its smooth implementation by relevant stakeholders. Corruption and related financial crimes frequently extend beyond national borders, requiring coordinated and sustained responses. In this context, UNODC, with the support of the European Union, continues to work closely with Libyan authorities to strengthen inter-agency coordination and enhance cooperation at national, regional, and international levels to address the cross-border dimensions of corruption and related money laundering crimes. Over the next two years, the project will support strengthened transparency and integrity in public administration, reinforce institutional and legal frameworks, and deepen cooperation mechanisms to effectively counter corruption and financial crimes with a transnational impact.

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04 April 2026

Children mark the international mine awareness day in Tripoli with the United Nations

TRIPOLI—More than 300 Libyan children gathered with their parents at the Scouts Theatre Saturday in Tripoli to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action under the theme “Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action.”The event was organized jointly by the Mine Action Programme, a section of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), the Libyan Mine Action Centre, the Libyan Scout Movement, the Libya Peace Organization, and the Libyan Red Crescent. It aimed to raise awareness among children and their families of the risks posed by landmines, explosive remnants of war, and unsafe ammunition. The day combined games, drawing, awareness activities, songs, and theatre performances centered on peace, safety, and protection. Children took part in activities that allowed them to express their hopes for a safer future. Their artwork and performances reflected themes of peace, resilience, and every child’s right to grow up in safety. The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, Ulrika Richardson, joined the children and their families during the event. Through practical and child-friendly activities, children, including 50 Syrian and Sudanese children, learned how to recognize suspicious objects, stay away from them, and report them to adults.During the ceremony, DSRSG/RC Richardson highlighted the important role of schools but also parents in raising awareness helping children stay safe in light of the remaining explosive ordnance and unsafe ammunition. The role of mothers and fathers is essential in teaching children not to pick up unfamiliar objects they may encounter while playing outdoors, she said. She noted that one-third of the victims of explosive remnants of war in Libya in 2025 were children, underlining the need to strengthen risk education not only in schools, but also at home. While conflicts may end, the danger posed by explosive ordnance and unsafe ammunition often remains present on the ground and in urban neighborhoods, she said, adding that not only did explosives cause fatalities and physical injuries but also emotional trauma which needs to be addressed. DSRSG/RC Richardson reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to continue working with Libyan institutions, including the Libyan Mine Action Centre, as well as national and international partners, to address these risks across Libya.The ceremony concluded with the distribution of awards to the children, adding a joyful close to the day.

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25 May 2026

International partners pledge continued support for mine action in Libya

TRIPOLI—On 14 May, representatives from ten countries met during the second annual Libya Mine Action Support Group in Tripoli. Together, they reaffirmed that mine action remains critical to protection of civilians and to stability and long-term peacebuilding in Libya and pledged to continue their support for Libyan-led efforts to address explosive contamination and strengthen civilian safety in affected areas. The meeting, which brought together diplomatic and military representatives from the European Union, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, Tunisia, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom, aimed to strengthen a coordinated international support for mine action efforts in Libya. This second meeting of the Mine Action Support Group was hosted by the Ambassador of Italy to Libya, Gianluca Alberini at the Italian Embassy in Tripoli, who co-chaired the meeting together with the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General/Resident Coordinator (DSRSG/RC) in Libya, Ulrika Richardson.Discussions focused on the humanitarian, socio-economic, and security impact of explosive remnants of war and unsafe ammunition storage, including the continued risks posed to civilians by ammunition depots located near residential areas across the country. According to the Libyan Mine Action Centre, more than 688 million square metres of confirmed or suspected hazardous areas have been identified across Libya since 2011, affecting residential areas, agricultural land, and critical infrastructure. Since May 2020, explosive ordnance incidents have resulted in 487 casualties, including 175 fatalities and 312 injuries, among them 87 children. Meeting participants underscored the need for concerted efforts to avoid future human tragedies as a result of explosive ordnances in Libya. Participants noted that mine action efforts in Libya continue to face challenges, including limited technical capacity, restricted operational access, and funding shortfalls relative to the scale of contamination. While 219 million square metres of land have been released through survey and clearance operations since the 2020 ceasefire, contamination continues to affect communities across Libya, including in southern Tripoli, Misrata, Sirte, Gharyan, Mizda, Benghazi, Tubruq, Murzuq, and Sabha.Participants emphasized the importance of national ownership and leadership as well as sustained international support for Libyan-led mine action efforts, including through capacity building,bilateral cooperation, and support to national institutions working in mine action and weapons and ammunition management. They also underscored the need for coordinated international engagement that aligns advocacy and messaging while strengthening nationally led efforts.To facilitate this, participants stressed the importance of elevating mine action and ammunition management discussions within the International Security Working Group of the Berlin Process.DSRSG/RC Richardson recalled the Secretary-General’s message for the 2026 International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action that “investment in Mine Action is investment in Peace.” She called for continued efforts to mitigate risks posed by ammunition stored in residential areas, protect civilians—including children—and accelerate recovery and development.“Mine action remains not only a humanitarian necessity, but also an important enabler of stabilization, local peacebuilding and safe return,” she said.Ambassador Alberini expressed pride in Italy’s longstanding commitment to supporting mine action efforts in Libya, and highlighted important training provided by the Italian Bilateral Mission for Assistance and Support in Libya. The Ambassador also praised the work being done to address the threat posed by explosive remnants of war and explosive ordnance across the county, highlighting the response to the August 2025 explosion in Misratah, which was led by the Libyan Mine Action Centre and partners with UN support. The blast originated from an ammunition depot located in a populated area, where unstable munitions ignited and triggered a large explosion. It affected a three-to-four-kilometre radius, injuring at least 21 people and damaging multiple commercial buildings and homes.“We witnessed, at the site of the explosion, the professionalism in carrying out clearance operations and explosive ordnance risk education activities,” he said.

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18 March 2026

In Alkufra, Ramadan is Served with Solidarity

In the far southeast of Libya, near the borders with Sudan and Chad, lies Alkufra; a desert city to which many Sudanese families fled to, escaping the war and violence in Sudan.For those arriving with little and uncertain about what comes next, Alkufra is often the first stop in a long journey.During Ramadan, as the sun sets and families gather for Iftar, large pots simmer in a modest charity kitchen that has become a source of daily solidarity.For more than two years, the Maiedat Alrahman initiative has been serving meals not only during Ramadan, but throughout the year. This month alone, 40 to 50 meals are prepared daily, each serving around five people reaching between 200 and 250 individuals every evening for Iftar.Ahmed Khaled, a Sudanese refugee who fled war in his hometown, says the kindness he found in Alkufra shaped his experience of displacement.“The Libyan community in Alkufra was very supportive, not only during Ramadan. They were welcoming and treated us like brothers.”Mohamed Adam remembers arriving with nothing.“We left Sudan because of the war and came to Alkufra with nothing. The Libyan people here were kind, welcoming, and generous to us. I will never forget their kindness. I hope Sudan recovers soon so we can spend next Ramadan with our families back home”For the volunteers behind the initiative, the effort is rooted in faith and humanity.“Ramadan is a time of giving, sharing, and mercy. People should support one another, especially those who have suffered so much. We try to help as much as we can, and we pray that they recover and that God shows mercy to them and to all of us.”In a city that has quietly received families escaping conflict, Maiedat Alrahman stands as a reminder that solidarity can outlast crisis.In Alkufra, Ramadan is not only observed; it is shared.

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08 March 2026

A call, a suitcase, and the quiet courage of starting again

[In the Picture]. Fatima, 38, sits with her sons Muhab, 8, and Abdurahim, 17, during pre-departure preparations ahead of their relocation through UNHCR’s Emergency Transit Mechanism (ETM). @UNHCR Libya/ Ziyad AlhamdiFatima’s life has been marked by moments you don’t forget.She speaks of the day her home was hit and her youngest brother died in front of her and of how she was injured in the same attack. It’s a memory that stayed in her body as much as in her mind, shaping how she learned to live with fear, and later, how she learned to live with survival.Years later, war returned to rewrite life again.When violence escalated in Sudan, Fatima fled with her two children in July 2023. By then, her family had already begun to scatter across borders: her mother in Egypt, a brother in Chad, and her older brother in Sudan – the person she says who carried her through the hardest days and who supported her as much as he could from afar.Then he was killed last October 2025 in El Fasher.“My life has not been easy,” she says. “But then… the call came.”Fatima remembers exactly where she was standing when UNHCR contacted her.“I was outside,” she says, her voice tightened for a second. “When they told me I would travel, I couldn’t believe it. I cried… these were tears of joy.”At the centre where UNHCR is going through the departure formalities with 164 refugee women, men and children who are departing Libya for Rwanda through the Emergency Transit Mechanism, preparation looks like documents held carefully, like bags lined up beside chairs, like families speaking in low voices as they wait.“My children are my strength,” she says. “Everything I do is for them.”Around Fatima, UNHCR colleagues move between families, checking that people understand each step, answering last questions, and offering reassurance that is practical, patient, and human.
“This stage is about clarity and dignity,” says a protection colleague. “People have been through a lot. Before anything else, they deserve to feel informed, supported, and respected.” The Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands, Heleen Baartmans, speaks with families, taking time to listen: one woman who is pregnant; a mother travelling with her three daughters; and another family holding their young child, Othman, close.
“When you meet with families and hear their stories up close, you understand this isn’t about numbers,” Heleen says. “It’s about people trying to move forward safely and about the shared responsibility to make safer paths possible.”UNHCR’s Chief of Mission, Karmen Sakhr watches the preparations closely, the quiet conversations, the questions, the careful steps that try to restore a sense of control to people who have lived too long without it.“When you look around, you see dozens of suitcases,” Karmen reflects. “But each one carries a life inside; memories, loss, and hope for what comes next. Our role is to make sure that journey begins with dignity and protection.”Fatima says she has lived too many chapters shaped by sudden change, the day she lost her father in an attack; the day she fled her country; the day she lost the brother who supported her; the long months of trying to hold her children’s lives together while her family was spread between countries.And yet, her wish is simple.“I want a peaceful life for my children,” she says. “That is all.”From far away, journeys are often reduced to routes and statistics. At this centre, they look like Fatima, a woman who has survived what she never should have witnessed, who has buried loved ones, who has carried her children through displacement, and who still finds space to believe in a safer tomorrow.Sometimes, a new chapter begins with something as small and life changing as a phone call.The Emergency Transit Mechanism is a life-saving initiative for very vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers in Libya to be evacuated to Rwanda, where they receive protection and assistance while durable solutions such as resettlement, voluntary return are pursued.Since its establishment in 2019, the ETM in Rwanda has helped more than 2,700 individuals find safety.To learn more about the ETM Rwanda, visit: UNHCR ETM Rwanda Info

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03 February 2026

A family leaves again. This time, it’s different.

In the picture [Hussam and his family at the Jugurthin Medical Centre after completing their medical screening ahead of their voluntary return flight to Syria. @UNHCR/Aml Albarghouti ] For a long time, returning home was not something Maha and her family allowed themselves to think about too much. Life had to be managed day by day, and there was always something more urgent to worry about.Maha is 43 years old and the mother of six. She and her family left Syria more than a decade ago, when the war made it impossible to keep their children safe.“We were afraid all the time, especially our children,” she recalls.Leaving Syria did not lead them straight to stability. Instead, it began a long period of moving and starting over. The family lived first in Egypt, and later in Libya, always looking for work, a place to live, and a way to keep their children in school.Hussam, the father, says those years were about keeping the family together, no matter how uncertain things felt.“Stability is the most important thing,” he says. “We moved from one place to another, always trying to give our children a decent life.”.When the family arrived in Libya in 2023, they slowly began to find their footing again. It was not easy; debts followed them, and past losses were never far from their minds, but they found support among the people around them.“We didn’t feel like strangers,” Hussam says. “People stood by us. Libya became part of our story, and saying goodbye is not easy. But this time it’s different – we're going home.”For the children, the idea of returning means different things. Some left Syria when they were very young. Others were born outside the country and know it only through stories.Tasneem, 24, was still a child when she left Syria, but she says the connection never disappeared.“I feel a strong sense of belonging,” she says. “I want to continue my education. My dream is to become a doctor and study at Damascus University.”Now, as the family prepares to return, some of the younger children will be seeing Syria for the first time. What they know of it comes from memories and stories passed down by their parents, of neighbourhoods, relatives, and a life that was interrupted but not forgotten.For Maha, the hope is simple and clear.“My only wish is for my children to be well,” she says. “To finish their education, and for God to make up for the difficult years.”UNHCR supports these voluntary returns, in coordination with national authorities, to ensure that families who choose to go back can do so in safety, dignity, and based on informed decisions.

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02 February 2026

Libya’s Youth Lead the Way at EcoVision 2026: A Nationwide Challenge Turns Climate Innovation into Action

Tripoli, 26 January 2026 – Across Libya, young people stepped forward this January with bold solutions to one of the world’s most urgent challenges: climate change. Through the EcoVision: Libya Youth Climate Challenge 2026, youth innovators transformed environmental risks into opportunities, demonstrating that Libya’s path to sustainability will be shaped not only by policy, but also by creativity and determination of its next generation. Led by the United Nations in Libya, EcoVision 2026 empowered young environmental entrepreneurs through hands-on training, mentorship, and seed funding to bridge ideas with action. More than 300 young women and men applied to the nationwide challenge. Following a competitive selection process, shortlisted participants convened for intensive workshops and competitions in Benghazi (13-14 January), Sebha (18-19 January), and Tripoli (25-26 January). Notably, over 30 per cent of applicants were young women, underscoring the undisputable place of Libyan women in climate innovation and entrepreneurship. While the growing leadership role of young women needs to be facilitated and nurtured, the trend is visible and without any turning back!Participants developed solutions rooted in Libya’s realities, ranging from climate-smart agriculture and circular economy ventures to digital tools for water conservation, demonstrating how local innovation can drive national resilience. “Libya’s greatest wealth is not only beneath its soil. It is seated in this room today,” said Ulrika Richardson, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and United Nations Resident Coordinator in Libya, in her opening remarks on the final day in Tripoli.A Journey Across Regions: From Vision to ActionEcoVision’s journey began in Benghazi, where young people from Libya’s eastern region took part in two days of interactive learning and pitching. Their ideas included AI-powered irrigation systems, robotics for environmental education, and green start-ups focused on biodiversity restoration. Four teams were awarded seed funding and will receive continued support to implement their projects. “This initiative gave us the chance to refine our ideas, gain valuable experience, and turn them into sustainable business solutions,” said one winning team. “EcoVision created real opportunities to make a positive impact on our environment and inspired us to drive change.” In Sebha, EcoVision became a catalyst for innovation in southern Libya. Participants developed climate-smart solutions tailored to the region’s unique environmental pressures, including smart leak-detection systems, local food processing initiatives to strengthen food security, and automated irrigation tools. Three teams received seed funding.“Although the programme lasted only two days, it was one of the most impactful workshops I have ever taken part in,” said a youth participant. “We strengthened many entrepreneurial skills that will help us scale up our projects. Opportunities like this are rare in the South.” The final stop in Tripoli brought together eight shortlisted teams who presented their ventures to a panel of experts and stakeholders, including representatives from national institutions, UN agencies, the private sector, and the diplomatic community. Winning projects included an AI-guided agricultural robot to reduce waste and increase yields; a food-surplus redistribution platform to cut waste and strengthen food security; and a tilapia hatchery aimed at restoring local aquaculture while creating jobs.“EcoVision gave us a special opportunity to network and connect directly with decision-makers, diplomats, and private sector leaders,” said one winning team. “These conversations helped us navigate how our ideas can move beyond concepts and into real partnerships.”Reflecting on the nationwide journey, DSRSG/RC Richardson noted, “This was more than travel across cities. It was an eye-opening journey through the incredible talent, creativity, and determination of Libya’s young people.”Matching Vision with Support: Building a System for SustainabilityA defining innovation of EcoVision 2026 is its referral system, designed to ensure sustained support beyond the event itself. Through a coordinated approach, participants will be connected to relevant UN agency programmes and future financing opportunities, helping promising ideas grow into scalable solutions. “For the United Nations in Libya, young people are not just beneficiaries of change. They are partners in shaping it,” emphasized DSRSG/RC Richardson. She asked young people to bring ideas. “The UN and its partners will match your ideas with an unwavering commitment to your growth, leadership, and success.”This approach directly supports the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework in Libya, advancing inclusive economic development, environmental resilience, and meaningful youth engagement.What’s Next: Planting Seeds for the FutureWhile EcoVision’s three-city tour has concluded, its impact is only starting to take shape. In the months ahead, seed grants will be disbursed and monitored, mentorship connections will remain active, and high-potential projects will be referred for scale-up through institutional partnerships. UN Libya and its partners are now exploring ways to institutionalize EcoVision as a national platform, ensuring that even more young women and men can lead climate action across the country. As Libya accelerates its path toward sustainability, these young innovators are not only imagining the future. They are building it. “Let EcoVision become part of Libya’s future,” DSRSG/RC Richardson concluded. “EcoVision is not ending here. This is only the beginning.”

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Press Release

01 June 2026

UN in Libya expresses concern over the spread of misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric

TRIPOLI – The United Nations in Libya notes with concern the renewed spread of misinformation, disinformation, and inflammatory rhetoric on social media platforms in Libya, including content targeting individuals or specific groups. Such narratives risk fuelling tension, mistrust, discrimination, and violence, undermining the dignity, safety and well-being of people across Libya.The United Nations in Libya remains committed to working with national and local authorities, civil society, media, and communities to promote access to accurate and reliable information. We encourage all individuals and institutions to verify information before sharing it and to rely on credible and official sources.Responsible communication and public discourse are essential to fostering mutual respect and informed and constructive dialogue. At a time when Libya continues to face complex political, economic, and social challenges, all actors have a shared responsibility to refrain from rhetoric that may incite hatred, discrimination, or violence.The United Nations in Libya calls upon the competent national authorities to take appropriate measures, in accordance with Libyan law and applicable international human rights standards, to address acts of incitement and the dissemination of harmful false information that may threaten public order, social cohesion, or the rights and dignity of individuals. Accountability, due process, and respect for human rights remain essential to safeguarding stability and the rights and dignity of all individuals in Libya.

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Press Release

29 April 2026

United Nations in Libya launches Youth Advisory Team to advance the youth agenda

The twelve young women and men from across Libya who were selected for the Youth Advisory Team inaugural cycle (April 2026 - March 2027), gathered in Tripoli for a formal start of their work during the current term. During the two days, members will receive a broad orientation on their roles and responsibilities; the accountability framework; ethical standards; and how to carry out effective youth engagement. The YAT is a consultative platform that brings together young people from diverse regions and backgrounds to provide structured, independent youth perspectives to inform UN analysis, advocacy, and programming in Libya. Although YAT members are volunteers and not UN staff, and do not officially represent or speak on behalf of the United Nations entities, they will help support UN youth engagement in Libya and meet regularly throughout the cycle. “Young people in Libya bring essential perspectives, leadership, and solutions to the country’s future,” said Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General and Resident Coordinator, Ulrika Richardson. “The Youth Advisory Team provides an important platform to ensure that the voices of young people help shape United Nations engagement and programming in Libya.” Composed of young women and men from Libya’s western, eastern, and southern regions, the Youth Advisory Team reflects Libya’s diversity. Its members bring wide range of professional and civic backgrounds—including youth leadership, peacebuilding, education, disability inclusion, communications, and community-based work—alongside a strong commitment to inclusion, including the participation of persons with disabilities. Through its work, the YAT will bring insights grounded in the lived experiences of young people and support United Nations efforts in Libya throughout the year. The YAT is a reflection of the United Nations’ commitment to advancing youth participation in peace and development efforts, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015). The initiative is supported by the Government of Italy through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Libya, with contributions from relevant UN agencies, funds and programmes.

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Press Release

28 April 2026

Youth Advisory Team (YAT) – United Nations in Libya

About the Youth Advisory Team (YAT) The Youth Advisory Team (YAT) is a consultative group established under the United Nations in Libya. It serves as a platform to provide structured, independent youth perspectives that inform United Nations analysis, advocacy, and programming, bringing together young women and men from across Libya. Their role is designed to ensure that the lived experiences, priorities, and ideas of young people are reflected in UN engagement in Libya in a consistent, ethical, and responsible manner. What does Youth Advisory Team do? The YAT provides independent, non‑binding advice to the UN in Libya through the Youth Working Group, which brings together UN entities working on youth-related issues. Through dialogue, consultations, written and verbal inputs, the YAT contributes practical, youth-informed perspectives on issues affecting young people across Libya. YAT members draw on their professional experience and engagement with communities and youth networks nationwide. Their role is voluntary to inform and enrich UN work—not to implement programmes; represent the United Nations; or speak on its behalf. What the Youth Advisory Team is – and what it is not The YAT is: A consultative and advisory bodyA platform for sharing diverse and inclusive youth perspectivesA structured mechanism aligned with United Nations standards and values The YAT is not: A youth organization or youth movementA decision‑making bodyA group that represents or speaks on behalf of the United Nations YAT members are not UN staff or contractors. They act in an independent advisory capacity and do not represent the UN in public or official settings. Values and standards The work of the Youth Advisory Team is guided by core United Nations values and standards, including: Professional conduct and ethical behaviorAccountability and transparencyConfidentiality and data protectionSafeguarding and protection from sexual exploitation and abuse These standards are essential to protecting communities, maintaining the credibility of the Team, and ensuring the safety and integrity of all members. The Youth Advisory Team The 2026-2027 Youth Advisory Team is composed of 12 young women and men from Libya’s western, eastern, and southern regions. The group reflects the country’s diversity, with members coming from a wide range of professional and civic backgrounds, including youth leadership, peacebuilding, education, disability inclusion, communications, and community‑based work. The Team launched its advisory cycle with an in‑person induction in Tripoli in April 2026. How the YAT contributes to UN work in Libya The Youth Advisory Team brings grounded, real-time perspectives from young people across Libya into the United Nations’ work. Through its inputs, the YAT helps to: Strengthen analysis and advocacy by ensuring they reflect the realities and priorities of young people Inform the design of programmes and initiatives affecting young peoplePromote more meaningful, inclusive, and ethical youth engagementSupport connections between youth networks across Libya By doing so, the YAT helps that UN engagement is more responsive, relevant, and connected to the experiences of young people. The YAT is part of the United Nations’ broader commitment to advancing youth participation in peace and development efforts, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015). For more information on youth engagement and the work of the United Nations in Libya, please follow official UN in Libya communication channels.

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Press Release

12 January 2026

UNODC Releases the First Report on Drug Trafficking Dynamics in Libya and across North Africa

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has released the first research report on “Drug trafficking dynamics in Libya and across North Africa: Trends and implications,” which provides an overview of recent developments and emerging trends in drug trafficking affecting Libya and the wider region.The report was launched in Tripoli at an event hosted by the Libyan Office of the Attorney-General, with the presence of national institutions and members of the diplomatic community in Libya. It provides a detailed analysis on drug trafficking dynamics in Libya between 2020 and 2024, placing national trends within the broader regional context. The report highlights evolving trafficking patterns and provides a baseline for tracking trends over time.Key findings point to linkages between drug trafficking and Libya’s security context; the country’s expanding role as a transit hub for drugs destined for regional markets; and a rise in domestic drug use — particularly synthetic substances, with health, social and stability implications. The report informs about drug flows, including cocaine transiting Libya towards the Middle East and Europe, and synthetic drugs reaching North Africa and other subregions of the continent. In 2024 alone, recorded cocaine seizures in Libya are estimated to have had a combined street value of between USD 3.7 million and USD 7.8 million (These figures reflect only recorded seizures, so the total value could be higher).The report’s policy recommendations are intended to support ongoing national and international efforts, including the implementation of Libya’s newly endorsed National Drug Control Strategy. The recommendations encourage continued cooperation and a coordinated approach to addressing transnational challenges, in line with the principle of shared responsibility.The increasing threat of drug trafficking and drug use across the Arab region, as documented by the World Drug Report, has led to renewed attention and increased momentum for regional cooperation on counter narcotics, including through enhanced intelligence-sharing and coordinated responses.Dr. Emhemed Zidan, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stated: “Strengthening regional and international cooperation, within the framework of partnership and shared responsibility, remains the cornerstone for addressing the dynamics of drug trafficking, particularly in regions facing overlapping security and development challenges, such as Libya and North Africa. Our responsibility today is a collective one and calls upon us to act in a spirit of partnership and integration, in full awareness that Libya’s security and the stability of North Africa constitute an integral part of regional and international security, and that the development of effective and sustainable strategies to counter drug trafficking requires clear political will and a comprehensive vision that balances security imperatives with development needs and human protection.”Counselor Abdulbasit Shahran, Deputy Public Prosecutor in charge of the Anti-Narcotics Affairs in Libya, stated: “The Attorney General's Criminal Research and Training Center calls upon UNODC and international partners to consider designating it as a regional hub that brings together research expertise and specialists in justice, law enforcement, and security. This would support the development of coordinated, balanced, and evidence-based responses, and enhance the Center’s role in advancing community service, in pursuit of security and development.”Ms. Ingeborg Ulrika Ulfsdotter Richardson, UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General / Resident Coordinator (DSRSG/RC) added: “Drug trafficking is not only a criminal justice issue but also a direct threat to peace and security, the rule of law, and state authority. The illicit revenues generated by this trade fuel organized criminal networks, undermine institutions, and prolong instability. This report provides the evidence needed to inform national action and international engagement, including at the level of the Security Council.”Ms. Cristina Albertin, UNODC Regional Representative for the Middle East and North Africa stated that “This report underscores the importance of responding to the drug challenge through a balanced and comprehensive approach that addresses both supply and demand, grounded in evidence and strong partnerships. UNODC is committed to supporting Libya and the region in strengthening data collection and analysis, enhancing law enforcement and criminal justice responses, and expanding prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Only through coordinated national and regional action can we effectively reduce the harm caused by drug trafficking and organized crime while promoting stability, health, and the rule of law.”The research report is available here:Drug Trafficking Dynamics in Libya and across North Africa Report* *** *For further information please contact:UNODC Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (ROMENA)Email: unodc-egyptfieldoffice@un.org

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Press Release

10 December 2025

Libya Marks International Anti-Corruption Day with the Launch of Phase II of the EU-Funded Project to Counter Corruption and Money Laundering, Implemented by UNODC

Libya commemorated International Anti-Corruption Day by launching Phase II of the European Union–funded project, “Building Libya’s National Capacity to Prevent and Combat Corruption and Money Laundering.” Implemented by UNODC Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (ROMENA) through its Programme Office in Libya, in partnership with the Supreme Committee Supervising the National Strategy for Performance, Oversight, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030) in the Administrative Control Authority (ACA). The project aims to strengthen further Libya’s institutional ability to prevent, detect, investigate, and respond to corruption and financial crimes.The signing was conducted by the Chair of the Supreme Committee Supervising the National Strategy for Performance, Oversight, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030), Mr. Ibrahim Abdulkarim Ali, and the Head of UNODC Programme Office in Libya, Dr. Tariq Sonnan. In this respect, the launch took place during the celebration of the State of Libya for the International Anti-Corruption Day, which was attended by more than 500 representatives from national authorities, as well as regional and international government officials. The celebration also marks the convening of a two-day Expert Group Meeting in Tripoli, gathering representatives from anti-corruption bodies from Libya, Algeria, Jordan, and Morocco, in addition to international experts from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Participants will be able to discuss the effective implementation of national anti-corruption strategies, with a particular focus on Libya’s National Strategy for Performance, Oversight, Anti-Corruption, and Prevention (2025–2030). The meeting will highlight the best regional and international practices for implementing national anti-corruption strategies, including effective inter-agency coordination and guidance on developing, monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on national strategies.In this respect, Mr. Abdulhamid Al-Dabaiba, Prime Minister, Government of National Unity, stated: “The inter-agency cooperation among executive bodies and supervisory authorities in Libya was commemorated with the development and launching of the national anti-corruption strategy of Libya. These efforts embody the strong political will and belief in the crucial role of supervisory authorities to combat corruption, and strengthen transparency and integrity.”Dr. Mohamed Takala, President of the High Council of State, highlighted that “developing a modern public administration should be supported by digital transformation, and transparent government-citizens transactions to prevent corruption. In this sense, the High Council of State is committed to supporting the process of institutional reform, and to providing a legislative environment that supports the independence of supervisory authorities to guarantee the effectiveness of their mandate to combat corruption, which contributes towards building a strong nation”.Mr. Abdulla Gadirboh, Chairman of the Administrative Control Authority, highlighted that “Libya was among the first States to sign and ratify the United Nations Convention against Corruption. We have worked tirelessly to implement its provisions on institutional and legislative levels by developing anti-corruption and transparency laws as well as establishing the Administrative Control Authority with the mandate to combat all forms of corruption and to mainstream integrity principles, including the preservation and maintenance of public funds and ensuring the transparent access to information.”Mr. Nicola Orlando, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Libya, stated: “The European Union stands firmly with leading institutions and civil society in combating corruption, which is a generational challenge. Moreover, to strengthen transparency, accountability, and the rule of law across the country. National anti-corruption strategies are vital in these matters as they bring together all efforts in a comprehensive and organized way to ensure that related initiatives converge towards national interests. The EU is honored to witness the launching of this EU-supported flagship project to strengthen national capacities to combat corruption and money laundering in Libya.”Ms. Ulrika Ingeborg, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General / Resident Coordinator (DSRSG/RC) stated “The United Nations remains fully committed to supporting Libya in building strong economic governance systems, enhancing oversight mechanisms and reinforcing the national capacity to prevent and combat corruption. These reforms are essential for restoring public trust and advancing stability and prosperity that all Libyans deserve.”Ms. Cristina Albertin, UNODC Regional Representative for the Middle East and North Africa, reiterated, “Corruption is a global challenge, yet the most effective solutions are built at the national level through strong leadership and meaningful collaboration. Our long-standing partnership with Libya has benefited over 600 officials and representatives, including prosecutors, investigators, law enforcement officials, financial analysts, academics, and youth, strengthening their skills in countering corruption, financial crimes, and promoting integrity.”Phase II builds on these achievements and aims to strengthen further the capacity of national institutions to detect, investigate, and adjudicate corruption and money laundering cases. It will also advance preventive measures against financial crimes while expanding efforts to engage Libyan youth in identifying and reporting corrupt practices and promoting ethical conduct in both business and community settings.Over the coming three years, the project will work to enhance transparency and integrity in public administration, strengthen operational and legal capacities to counter corruption and money laundering, and deepen national, regional, and international cooperation to address cross-border financial crimes.

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