Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
Press Release
10 August 2025
Secretary-General appoints Ms. Ingeborg Ulrika Ulfsdotter Richardson of Sweden as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and Resident Coordinator in Libya
She has over 30 years of experience in development and humanitarian assistance and post-conflict recovery, with a focus on complex political, socio-economic, and human rights contexts. She has spent most of her career with the United Nations, serving in various regions, including West and Central Africa, the Caribbean, the Western Balkans and South-East Europe. Ms. Richardson has been the Deputy Special Representative for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti since 2022, and was previously the Resident Coordinator in Kosovo, working closely with United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) (2018-2022). Her earlier assignments include serving as the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Children’s Fund and United Nations Population Fund in Cabo Verde (2013-2018), UNDP Resident Representative in Gabon (2012-2013), and Deputy Resident Representative in Türkiye (2007-2012) and in Cuba (2004-2007).Ms. Richardson holds a master’s degree in development economics from Gothenburg University and a Bachelor of Social Science from Lund University, both in Sweden. In addition to her native Swedish, she is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.New York, 8 August 2025
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Publication
25 June 2025
UN Libya Annual Results Report 2024
In 2024, the UN in Libya continued to support Libya’s development priorities through more than 250 projects and initiatives under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023–2026), focusing on:Peace and GovernanceSustainable Economic DevelopmentSocial and Human Capital DevelopmentClimate Change, Environment, and WaterDurable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)Migration ManagementFrom supporting municipal elections to helping launch Libya’s first National Sustainable Energy Strategy—and from enhancing access to services for IDPs and host communities to expanding opportunities for youth and women—2024 marked meaningful progress across the country.In 2025, the UN in Libya will continue to work with national and local partners to advance inclusive and sustainable development, strengthen service delivery, and respond to emerging needs—with a focus on climate resilience and youth empowerment.
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Story
19 August 2025
Her Voice, Their Hope: Celebrating Women Humanitarians on World Humanitarian Day
Hayat, 23, volunteers with the Libyan Red Crescent in Bani Waleed. When she first joined, her choice was not always welcomed. Some in her community told her, “You’re a girl, stay home.” But Hayat kept showing up. With her family’s support—especially her father’s—she stayed committed, knowing she had something meaningful to give.For Hayat, volunteering was never just a hobby. It was a responsibility. “Giving isn’t extra,” she said. “It’s something we owe each other.”As she began her work, she noticed how often women were excluded or left without support. Families didn’t always know where to turn. Hayat decided to step in, to be what she calls a “bridge” between those in need and those who could help.One of her first roles was at a local pharmacy. Many women felt uncomfortable speaking to male pharmacists about private health issues. Hayat stood beside them, helping them explain their needs. “Just standing with them gave them confidence,” she recalled. Her presence was often enough to make women feel supported.On another occasion, she visited children in the kidney ward, bringing handmade cards to lift their spirits. A young girl looked at her and said, “We want to be like you.” That moment stayed with Hayat—it reminded her why her work mattered.The path was not always easy. Some doubted her, but she chose to focus on the people she could help. “I didn’t do this for approval,” she explained. “I did it because someone needed me.”Over time, her persistence paid off. Hayat became a team leader, training new volunteers and encouraging them to grow. For her, leadership was about listening, guiding, and making space for others’ ideas.In December 2024, she took part in a Training of Trainers (ToT) program led by UN Women, the Ministry of Local Governance, and the Libyan Red Crescent. The training on women’s needs in humanitarian crises gave her practical tools she now applies in every visit and every conversation.On this #WorldHumanitarianDay, Hayat stands as an example of the countless young women who embody the true spirit of humanitarian action. She speaks with calm, steady purpose, listens without judgment, and helps women feel seen and heard—never seeking recognition for herself, but always working for others.Looking back, she says her work gave her more than she expected. “Humanitarian work shaped me,” she reflected. “It gave me a voice and a place in my country.”Her story reminds us of the power of women’s leadership in humanitarian response. This World Humanitarian Day, we celebrate Hayat—and all those who, step by step, are changing their communities and building hope.
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Press Release
25 November 2024
United Nations in Libya calls for action to protect and promote the rights of women
The 16 Days of Activism against Violence against women and girls is an annual international campaign, which commences on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on 10 December. Under the leadership of the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, UNiTE by 2030 to End Violence against Women initiative (UNiTE) calls for global action to increase awareness, galvanize advocacy efforts and share knowledge and innovations to end VAWG once and for all.The United Nations in Libya reaffirms unwavering support to Libyans in ending all forms of violence, including against women and girls. We call on national and local authorities to urgently address any form of violence against women and girls and to advance the protection of women’s rights and their empowerment in line with their international obligations.Reports of troubling increase in online violence, including harassment, threats and sexual blackmail, particularly against activists and public figures, further underscore the need for stronger protection of women's rights including in the digital space. The United Nations in Libya remains committed to a comprehensive approach, including prevention, protection, survivor support and accountability, to ending violence against women and girls in Libya. In this context, we acknowledge the critical role of women’s empowerment in preventing violence against women. As we commence the 16 Days of Activism, the United Nations in Libya would like to recognize the progress achieved through collaboration between the state and United Nations entities in protecting and empowering women and girls. We will continue working with the government, local partners and civil society to ensure that every woman and girl in Libya can enjoy her full rights and live free from fear of violence.
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Publication
12 August 2024
Building Peace based on Ownership of Women and Youth: Understanding and Documenting Local Experiences in Libya
The prolonged conflict in Libya has significantly hindered the progress of women and youth in peacebuilding efforts, leaving the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agendas marginalized and facing considerable challenges. Despite constitutional provisions and quotas aimed at increasing women's representation in parliament and leadership positions, there are no guarantees to protect them from retaliatory actions due to the lack of security sector reforms. Moreover, the role of youth in peacebuilding is underappreciated, with many studies highlighting a significant lack of gender- and age-disaggregated data on the conflict and violence in Libya, which presents an incomplete picture of the challenges faced by Libyan women and youth. In response, UN Women Libya, in collaboration with the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC), conducted a survey to better understand and document the experiences of local peacebuilders. This paper captures the perspectives and challenges of Libyan women and youth in peacebuilding, offering insights and recommendations to enhance their inclusion and leadership in the process.
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Story
03 September 2025
Made in Libya
Even during times when it was uncommon for women to pursue careers, Libyan women have always been known to be creators, designers, chefs and artisans, often mastering their crafts at home and passing them through generations. There’s a Libyan proverb that says, “Better a skill in your hands than wealth from your ancestors.” This saying becomes more evident in difficult times, when many women must rely on their own talents to support their families. They turn their “Sana’a” – their skill -- into sustenance. Libyan women have long worked quietly from their homes—sewing in dimly lit rooms after putting their children to bed, crafting tea spread cloths to sell, preparing traditional Holi, or making date-filled ma’moul in their kitchens for a wedding just down the street. These hard-working women, while making a comfortable living from the convenience of their own homes, rarely see their labours of love make a ripple beyond their neighbourhoods and towns, and even fewer have the chance to celebrate them on a national, let alone regional, stage. Women’s participation in local and regional economies is vital for diversification and growth—especially for Libyan women, who remain underrepresented in African forums and in non-Arabic-speaking contexts. In May 2025, this was on full display in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where over 400 participants gathered for the 6th COMESA Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB) an event designed to promote women’s role in regional trade. With support from UNDP Libya, three Libyan entrepreneurs—Souad, Awatef, and Rabea—were given the opportunity to showcase their businesses regionally, gaining technical guidance and an exhibition space to spotlight their craftsmanship, in Spice-making, Crochet and Fashion Design. Souad Sulaiman: The Business-savvy Spice Maker Souad Sulaiman, a former academic who found her path as an entrepreneur by a stroke of generosity, is the founder of Jasmin Alsham Spices. She is a spice-maker who grew up surrounded by passionate cooks. She recalls with a smile: ‘I was always considered the best cook in my family.’She began in this business by making spices for her family and occasionally gifting batches of spice mixes to friends. One friend suggested she sell them more widely, which sparked her professional journey.Souad got her professional start at a local bazaar, where her entire first batch of spices sold out. The immediate demand for her unique blends confirmed her path. Today, she continues to build her business, supplying supermarkets across Tripoli, driven by the same passion that first led her to the kitchen. Her participation in COMESA allowed her to showcase her spices on a wider regional stage, providing a unique opportunity to test people’s palates and represent Libya. “When we showcased our products in Ethiopia, people were impressed with what we made and started buying from us.” Today, this is her way of making a living for her four children, for whom she is the main supporter.Awatef Sbeta: The Delicate Crocheter
Awatef Sbeta, the founder of Nomanamat, learned the intricate art of crochet from a friend. For her, it was never just a hobby—it became a source of joy and purpose. A self-proclaimed perfectionist, Sbeta finesses every fibre with precision. Long before she was widowed, she was a driven and creative working woman receiving compliments about her work more than praise; they affirmed the beauty she was creating.“When I crochet,” she says, “I feel removed from my worries. It’s my own world.” Awatef believes that Libyan women have always been creators, even if they didn't always monetize their craft. “Our mothers are artists by nature,” she reflects. “They sewed their tea cloths and handled their furashiyas delicately. They poured their passion and soul into everything they made.” This legacy runs through Awatef’s spirit as she continues a cultural tradition of creation and care. Sbeta was recognized among the top three in a highly competitive category at the COMFWB Annual Awards for her outstanding 2-year-old crochet project, Nomanamat. “It was a complete surprise.” she says, “I truly didn’t expect it, and it left me with the drive to keep going.” Self-aware about her journey and how she got where she did, she continues: “I made it here, but how many people are lucky enough to attend such events and get that kind of support to move forward?” Rabea Ben Barka: The Fervent Fashion Designer Rabea Ben Barka is a designer with a passion for reimagining traditional Libyan wear. The first in her generation, her work honours heritage while infusing it with a modern sensibility. “Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to fashion design,” she says. Her grandfather opened Libya’s first textile factory in 1943, producing robes and traditional clothing, and his legacy inspired her path.
“I want to work in Libya because I studied with the goal of giving back to my country.”Traveling across all regions of Libya, she gained a deep understanding of the diverse styles and traditions. That experience sparked an idea: to modernize the traditional Libyan dress, reimagining it with fresh, innovative designs.For Rabea, design is not just about clothing; it's about identity and national pride.” With UNDP’s support, these three women brought their skills to a regional stage, proving that Libya’s entrepreneurs have much to offer. As Rabea put it:"My message to every young man and woman with a business idea is to master your craft, just as my talented colleagues Souad and Awatef have done. That’s how we move from importing to exporting. We want to produce rather than consume. We want the world to recognize our work. And we want to proudly say: ‘Made in Libya.’
Awatef Sbeta, the founder of Nomanamat, learned the intricate art of crochet from a friend. For her, it was never just a hobby—it became a source of joy and purpose. A self-proclaimed perfectionist, Sbeta finesses every fibre with precision. Long before she was widowed, she was a driven and creative working woman receiving compliments about her work more than praise; they affirmed the beauty she was creating.“When I crochet,” she says, “I feel removed from my worries. It’s my own world.” Awatef believes that Libyan women have always been creators, even if they didn't always monetize their craft. “Our mothers are artists by nature,” she reflects. “They sewed their tea cloths and handled their furashiyas delicately. They poured their passion and soul into everything they made.” This legacy runs through Awatef’s spirit as she continues a cultural tradition of creation and care. Sbeta was recognized among the top three in a highly competitive category at the COMFWB Annual Awards for her outstanding 2-year-old crochet project, Nomanamat. “It was a complete surprise.” she says, “I truly didn’t expect it, and it left me with the drive to keep going.” Self-aware about her journey and how she got where she did, she continues: “I made it here, but how many people are lucky enough to attend such events and get that kind of support to move forward?” Rabea Ben Barka: The Fervent Fashion Designer Rabea Ben Barka is a designer with a passion for reimagining traditional Libyan wear. The first in her generation, her work honours heritage while infusing it with a modern sensibility. “Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to fashion design,” she says. Her grandfather opened Libya’s first textile factory in 1943, producing robes and traditional clothing, and his legacy inspired her path.
“I want to work in Libya because I studied with the goal of giving back to my country.”Traveling across all regions of Libya, she gained a deep understanding of the diverse styles and traditions. That experience sparked an idea: to modernize the traditional Libyan dress, reimagining it with fresh, innovative designs.For Rabea, design is not just about clothing; it's about identity and national pride.” With UNDP’s support, these three women brought their skills to a regional stage, proving that Libya’s entrepreneurs have much to offer. As Rabea put it:"My message to every young man and woman with a business idea is to master your craft, just as my talented colleagues Souad and Awatef have done. That’s how we move from importing to exporting. We want to produce rather than consume. We want the world to recognize our work. And we want to proudly say: ‘Made in Libya.’
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Story
12 August 2025
UN in Libya’s Ra’idat programme graduates its second cohort on International Youth Day
Hanna Tetteh, the Special Representative of the Secretary General for Libya, attended the ceremony, which also marked International Youth Day.The second cohort of the programme ended their year of training by delivering seven different group presentations on youth empowerment in Libya communication campaigns in front of their families, mentors, UN staff, the international community and the SRSG.“Libyan women face many challenges when trying to engage in their societies and lead. Those can be cultural, they can be political, they can even come from their own families, and sometimes they can even be violent,” said SRSG Tetteh adding that it was crucial women’s voices – young and old – were heard in all walks of life to ensure that Libya’s future was sustainable for all.This year marks 10 years since UN Security Council Resolution 2250, which made youth, peace and security a key element of the peacebuilding work the UN does around the world.Since 2023, the UN in Libya has implemented the Ra’idat programme, taking 35 young women annually from across the country with equal representation from the east, south and west of the country. Each cultural component is represented in the programme, with ten per cent of places also allocated to persons with disabilities.“Today you are graduating as part of a network of women who can help and support you through challenges. The power of that network, the power of support, reassurance, and knowing you can work together as a group, cannot be underestimated. It is easy to dismiss one voice. It is much harder to dismiss thousands,” added the SRSG.“While change does not happen overnight, it also rarely happens as the result of one person’s actions. I sincerely hope that the programme has given you the safety and the space to build the friendships that last a lifetime.” Six young women were chosen by the programme team to undertake further training in Rome in September, visiting the Italian parliament, meeting prominent Italian female leaders and youth peacebuilders at universities in the city.“As Ra’idat graduates you represent some of the brightest and best young women across the country. You were selected from 750 applicants, many of whom begged us for spaces on the programme. We are extremely proud of the journeys you have gone on to get here tonight.”Graduates from the progamme will now join the Ra’idat Alumni Network – comprised of all the programme’s graduates – and continue to work together to on key issues.The Ra’idat programme is a partnership between UNSMIL, UNICEF, UNDP and UN Women. This year’s cohort was generously supported by the Federal Republic of Germany, the Italian Government, the Government of Finland and the United Kingdom.Cohort 3 of the programme closed for applications on 15 July, with 899 young women entering the process. The selection process is ongoing, with the cohort expected to be onboarded and begin their training in October.
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Story
03 July 2025
Voices of Refugees in Libya on World Refugee Day 2025
On World Refugee Day and every day, we pause to listen. To remember. To witness.
More than 313,000 people from Sudan have arrived in Libya since April 2023, fleeing war, persecution, and uncertainty. Some came alone. Others came with nothing but their children and clothes on their backs.
Through every journey, one thing remains constant: hope for peace, education, and returning home.In this photo essay, we share the stories of three refugees. Each offers a glimpse into what it means to be displaced — and what it means to hold on to humanity.Radeyya: A Mother’s Plea for Peace and a future for her family📍 Tripoli | Sudanese, Mother of four
Tripoli (Libya) June, 2025. Radeyya and her husband shares laughs with her children Duaa, Awab, Sulyman and Maab during World Refugee Day activities. Photo: UNHCR Libya / Ziyad Alhamdi“I need education for my children. I want them to have a future.”Radeyya fled Sudan iseeking safety. Today, she lives in Tripoli with her husband and four children — aged 13, 12, 9, and 6 — none of whom have had access to formal schooling.
“I want to thank the Libyan people — our brothers and sisters. They gave us clothes, food, and shelter when we had nothing,” she says.Still, her voice carries a deeper longing — one that stretches beyond borders.
“I want the international community to hear from us. Please help end the war in Sudan so we can go home. I don’t know what the future holds — the uncertainty is overwhelming.” Jeto & Ikram: Found Family, Built from Loss📍 Tripoli | Ethiopian caregiver, 29 | Caring for four unaccompanied children
Figure 1Tripoli (Libya) June, Jeto, carefully helps seven-year-old Ikram string beads during an art session at the World Refugee Day celebration. Photo: UNHCR Libya / Ziyad Alhamdi“Ikram is my daughter, my sister, my everything.”Jeto is just 29, but she has become the guardian of four children who fled without their families. One of them is seven-year-old Ikram, who has changed her life.
“We laugh together, eat together, and share a small space we call home. She’s taught me what resilience really means.”Jeto has a message for the little girl who became her world:
“Dear Ikram, I love you. You made life easier. I hope you grow up to be the doctor you dream of becoming — and that you always keep your kindness.” Ahmed: Alone, but Unbroken📍 Tripoli | 14 years old | Separated from family
“Sudan is my home. And home… is my mother.”At just 14, Ahmed crossed the desert alone in search of safety. He had lost his father in Sudan and did not know where his mother or siblings were.
“I left Sudan and came to Libya for peace,” he says softly. “War is terrifying — especially for children.”His words are simple, but urgent:
“Please make peace happen in Sudan. I just want to go home, Sudan is my nation, and it is an obligation to go back”Three voices, among thousands, carry grief, strength, and love across borders.
As conflict continues in Sudan and in other countries around the globe, we must not look away. Every child deserves an education, but even more, a childhood. Every person deserves peace. And every refugee deserves dignity and the chance to live, thrive, and dream in safety.
*Name change to protect identity
More than 313,000 people from Sudan have arrived in Libya since April 2023, fleeing war, persecution, and uncertainty. Some came alone. Others came with nothing but their children and clothes on their backs.
Through every journey, one thing remains constant: hope for peace, education, and returning home.In this photo essay, we share the stories of three refugees. Each offers a glimpse into what it means to be displaced — and what it means to hold on to humanity.Radeyya: A Mother’s Plea for Peace and a future for her family📍 Tripoli | Sudanese, Mother of four
Tripoli (Libya) June, 2025. Radeyya and her husband shares laughs with her children Duaa, Awab, Sulyman and Maab during World Refugee Day activities. Photo: UNHCR Libya / Ziyad Alhamdi“I need education for my children. I want them to have a future.”Radeyya fled Sudan iseeking safety. Today, she lives in Tripoli with her husband and four children — aged 13, 12, 9, and 6 — none of whom have had access to formal schooling.
“I want to thank the Libyan people — our brothers and sisters. They gave us clothes, food, and shelter when we had nothing,” she says.Still, her voice carries a deeper longing — one that stretches beyond borders.
“I want the international community to hear from us. Please help end the war in Sudan so we can go home. I don’t know what the future holds — the uncertainty is overwhelming.” Jeto & Ikram: Found Family, Built from Loss📍 Tripoli | Ethiopian caregiver, 29 | Caring for four unaccompanied children
Figure 1Tripoli (Libya) June, Jeto, carefully helps seven-year-old Ikram string beads during an art session at the World Refugee Day celebration. Photo: UNHCR Libya / Ziyad Alhamdi“Ikram is my daughter, my sister, my everything.”Jeto is just 29, but she has become the guardian of four children who fled without their families. One of them is seven-year-old Ikram, who has changed her life.
“We laugh together, eat together, and share a small space we call home. She’s taught me what resilience really means.”Jeto has a message for the little girl who became her world:
“Dear Ikram, I love you. You made life easier. I hope you grow up to be the doctor you dream of becoming — and that you always keep your kindness.” Ahmed: Alone, but Unbroken📍 Tripoli | 14 years old | Separated from family
“Sudan is my home. And home… is my mother.”At just 14, Ahmed crossed the desert alone in search of safety. He had lost his father in Sudan and did not know where his mother or siblings were.
“I left Sudan and came to Libya for peace,” he says softly. “War is terrifying — especially for children.”His words are simple, but urgent:
“Please make peace happen in Sudan. I just want to go home, Sudan is my nation, and it is an obligation to go back”Three voices, among thousands, carry grief, strength, and love across borders.
As conflict continues in Sudan and in other countries around the globe, we must not look away. Every child deserves an education, but even more, a childhood. Every person deserves peace. And every refugee deserves dignity and the chance to live, thrive, and dream in safety.
*Name change to protect identity
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Story
03 July 2025
UN in Libya’s Ra’idat Programme opens for applications from young women across Libya
The United Nations in Libya is now accepting applications for the third cohort of its annual Ra’idat training programme which opens at midnight 1 July. Young Libyan women aged 18-30 are invited to apply between 1 and 15 July to join the programme, with applications from women from all cultural components and those with disabilities strongly encouraged.Ra’idat is a UN in Libya initiative led by UNSMIL and supported by UNDP, UNICEF and UN Women. It aims to develop the leadership potential of young Libyan women by building their competencies in key areas such as communications, advocacy, teamwork, leadership and human rights advocacy.“Two years ago, we launched the Ra’idat programme to empower young women with the skills and knowledge to take an active role in shaping their futures,” said Special Representative of the Secretary General, Ms. Hanna Tetteh“I have seen firsthand the impact of the programme on the young women involved – not just the skills and confidence building, but the friendships and support network built,” SRSG Tetteh added. “It is a highly competitive and intensive programme – we had 747 applications last year – and I hope that young women from across Libya also apply this year to become part of the growing network of Ra’idat alumni. I believe it will be a life changing experience for them, and I look forward to meeting them in person in the autumn.”Only 35 women who meet the strict criteria will be chosen to be part of the year-long programme, based on their answers to the application questionnaire available on the Ra’idat webpage."I grew up without sisters, and I've always wanted to know what it would be like,” said Eman Elrefadi, from Ra’idat’s second cohort. “This programme allowed me to learn so much both professionally and personally from intelligent, beautiful, and intellectually rich women from across the country which is an incredibly unique experience I won't find elsewhere."The training programme, which will start in October, covers communications, advocacy, teamwork and leadership skills, as well as building participants’ knowledge of human rights, elections and women’s legal rights in Libya. All regions are equally represented, with participants coming from all cultural components and support provided to those with disabilities.“The Raidat program isn’t just an educational experience; it’s literally the light that shows me the path and the direction that I want to take in the future,” said Wala Khalifa from Ra’idat second cohort. “What makes the Raidat program unique is its focus on real skills development. It provides practical experiences that help us build our skills in various areas, shaping us into true leaders, and I personally felt this transformation. I’ve experienced significant growth, both in my career and personally,” she added.Young women have until midnight 15 July to apply.
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Story
25 June 2025
The UN in Libya Releases Its 2024 Annual Results Report
In 2024, the UN in Libya continued to support Libya’s development priorities through more than 250 projects and initiatives under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023–2026), focusing on:Peace and GovernanceSustainable Economic DevelopmentSocial and Human Capital DevelopmentClimate Change, Environment, and WaterDurable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)Migration ManagementFrom supporting municipal elections to helping launch Libya’s first National Sustainable Energy Strategy—and from enhancing access to services for IDPs and host communities to expanding opportunities for youth and women—2024 marked meaningful progress across the country.In 2025, the UN in Libya will continue to work with national and local partners to advance inclusive and sustainable development, strengthen service delivery, and respond to emerging needs—with a focus on climate resilience and youth empowerment.To read the full report follow the link: https://libya.un.org/en/296931-un-libya-annual-results-report-2024
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Press Release
20 June 2025
World Refugee Day 2025
Tripoli, 20 June 2025 – On World Refugee Day, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, joins the international community in honouring the courage and strength of people forced to flee persecution, conflict, and violence. This year’s theme, “Solidarity with Refugees”, is a call to action – to stand together, listen to refugees’ stories, and support their right to seek safety.In Libya, thousands of people who fled war and insecurity, including recent arrivals from Sudan, continue to face enormous challenges. Many families have lost everything and are still unable to return home. Most refugees are living in difficult conditions, often in underserved areas where local Libyan communities are also struggling with overstretched services.UNHCR is working closely with Libyan authorities and partners across the country to support both refugees and the Libyan people hosting them. This includes distributing core relief items, improving access to water and sanitation, rehabilitating health and education facilities, and providing support through community-based centres. According to the newly released UNHCR Global Trends Report, over 120 million people worldwide are now forcibly displaced – the highest number ever recorded. Ongoing crises, conflicts, and the absence of political solutions continue to push people into forced displacement. In this context, the need for global solidarity and responsibility-sharing has never been greater.“Solidarity with refugees means standing with people in their hardest moments – not with words, but with actions,” said Karmen Sakhr, UNHCR’s Chief of Mission in Libya. “It means supporting both those forced to flee and the communities who host them. In Libya, we see remarkable examples of solidarity every day – the way the authorities coordinate humanitarian support, and Libyan families who share what they have.”UNHCR reiterates its commitment to supporting the authorities and people of Libya in responding to humanitarian needs, whilst at the same time advocating for political solutions to enable people to return home.Refugees are not alone. On World Refugee Day – and every day – we stand with them.For media inquiries, please contact:Aml Albarghouti Assistant Communications Officer, UNHCR Libyaalbarghouti@unhcr.org
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Press Release
13 March 2025
Statement by the United Nations in Libya warns against misinformation and hate speech
TRIPOLI – The United Nations recognizes the commitment of the Libyan national and municipal authorities to addressing the concerns of the Libyan people. Underscoring the importance of preserving the national sovereignty of Libya, the UN support in strengthening migration governance is aligned with Libya’s national priorities.The United Nations in Libya is deeply concerned with a misinformation campaign that is fueling tensions in Libya and inciting hate speech against refugees and migrants. Misleading narratives only foster fear and hostility.The United Nations urges all actors to refrain from spreading unverified information and to ensure that public discourse is fact-based and respectful of human rights.
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Press Release
25 December 2024
UN General Assembly adopts landmark convention on cybercrime
The United Nations General Assembly adopted today a new convention to prevent and combat cybercrime, concluding a five-year negotiation process. The UN Convention against Cybercrime aims to prevent and combat cybercrime more efficiently and effectively, including by strengthening international cooperation and by providing technical assistance and capacity-building support, particularly for developing countries. “We live in a digital world, one where information and communications technologies have enormous potential for the development of societies, but also increases the potential threat of cybercrime. With the adoption of this Convention, Member States have at hand the tools and means to strengthen international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime, protecting people and their rights online,” said the President of the UN General Assembly Philémon Yang. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) served as secretariat to the negotiations. “The adoption of this landmark convention is a major victory for multilateralism, marking the first international anti-crime treaty in 20 years. It is a crucial step forward in our efforts to address crimes like online child sexual abuse, sophisticated online scams and money laundering,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. “In today’s digital age, cybercrime is becoming more pervasive and destructive, exploiting the vulnerable and draining trillions from our economies every year,” she added. “UNODC stands ready to support Member States in signing, ratifying and implementing this new treaty by providing countries with the tools, assistance and capacity-building support they need to protect their economies and safeguard the digital sphere from cybercrime.”The General Assembly adopted the resolution without a vote. UN Member States, with the input of civil society, academic institutions and the private sector, had negotiated the text for over five years. The Convention will open for signature at a formal ceremony to be hosted by Viet Nam in 2025. It will enter into force 90 days after being ratified by the 40th signatory. UNODC will continue to serve as secretariat to the Ad Hoc Committee, which is mandated to negotiate a draft protocol to supplement the Convention, as well as to the future Conference of the States Parties.To read the text of the Convention, click here.*****For further information please contact:Sonya YeeChief, UNODC Advocacy SectionMobile: (+43-699) 1459-4990Email: unodc-press[at]un.org*****
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Press Release
10 October 2024
Announcing the Appointment of Mr Aeneas Chuma as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Libya, ad interim
Before this appointment, Mr. Chuma served as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Eritrea. Mr. Chuma held several positions within the United Nations, including serving as ILO Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Africa from 2014 to 2017. He was appointed as the acting United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia in October 2018. He also served as Assistant Secretary General and Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the United Nations Mission, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, and UNDP Resident Representative in Liberia from 2012-2014. Mr. Chuma also served as the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Kenya from 2008 to 2012 and Zambia from 2003 to 2008. From 2000 to 2003, he was Mozambique's UN Deputy Resident Representative. He also held various positions with the United Nations Development Programme in New York, Oman, and Zimbabwe.Mr. Chuma holds a master’s degree in applied economics from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
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Press Release
12 August 2024
United Nations: Member States finalize a new cybercrime convention
After three years of work, the committee established by the UN General Assembly to negotiate a new convention on cybercrime agreed today on a draft convention text.The draft convention is expected to be adopted by the General Assembly later this year, thus becoming the first global legally binding instrument on cybercrime.This achievement represents the culmination of a five-year effort by UN Member States, with the input of civil society, academic institutions and the private sector. UNODC served as the substantive secretariat for the negotiations.“The finalization of this Convention is a landmark step as the first multilateral anti-crime treaty in over 20 years and the first UN Convention against Cybercrime at a time when threats in cyberspace are growing rapidly,” said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. “I congratulate Member States and the Ad Hoc Committee, under the leadership of Ambassador Faouzia Boumaiza-Mebarki as Chair and a strong representative of women diplomats, for guiding negotiations and reaching consensus on the final text. UNODC is immensely proud to have supported the negotiation process and to serve as the Secretariat of the Convention. We will continue to play a central role in assisting in the implementation and ratification of the Convention, once adopted by the General Assembly, as well as providing technical assistance to Member States, as we work with all countries and partners to safeguard digital spaces.”As noted in the draft convention, technology has created opportunities for a greater scale, speed, and scope of crimes, from terrorism to drug trafficking to trafficking in persons, migrant smuggling, firearms trafficking, and more.The draft convention provides tools that will enhance international cooperation, law enforcement efforts, technical assistance, and capacity-building relating to cybercrime.To read the draft convention, click here * *** *For further information, please contact: Reka Furtos
UNODC Advocacy Section
Email: unodc-press@un.org
UNODC Advocacy Section
Email: unodc-press@un.org
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