Statement by Aivis Kļavinskis, Political Coordinator of Latvia to the United Nations, at the UN Security Council Briefing on situation in Libya
18 June, 2026 10 AM
Madame President,
I would like to thank SRSG Hanna Tetteh for her briefing.
[I also welcome the participation of the representative of Libya in this meeting.]
Latvia continues to express strong support for the SRSG and UNSMIL in their efforts to implement the roadmap and work towards a solution that would lead to stability and bring an end to the political deadlock in Libya. We underscore the need to maintain a coherent process under the auspices of the UN.
We recall that during the previous briefing SRSG informed this Council of the intention to convene a small group discussions in order to bring the main political parties to one table.
We note that since then several such convenings have taken place, and we welcome the fact that the parties were able to reach an agreement to reconstitute the Board of the High National Elections Commission. This demonstrates that dialogue between the relevant actors is possible and necessary.
We call on the involved parties to continue their constructive engagement in order to find an agreement that would pave the way for national elections and the unification of Libya's government and institutions.
We would also like to appreciate the work of SRSG, UNSMIL team and all members of the Structured Dialogue for their active participation and concluding the process. The inclusive nature and broad participation by the wide range of stakeholders, including women and youth, clearly demonstrates the wish of the Libyan people to have their voices heard.
We hope that now further broader engagement with Libyan people will ensure comprehensive support to the recommendations of the Dialogue. We call for all stakeholders to engage in good faith and review the outcomes of the Structured Dialogue with a open mind for the benefit of the Libyan people. To move forward, clear and binding political commitments from all actors are essential to enable national elections, unify and strengthen state institutions, and help address long-standing drivers of division.
Madam President,
While we note these positive developments, the security situation remains fragile. Persistent fragmentation continues to undermine stability and highlights the urgence of more sustained and outcome-driven efforts. The recent clashes in Zawiya only add to the concerns about a possible escalation of armed conflict. Such violence narrows the potential avenue for dialogue, undermines the political process and further deepens mistrust. We reiterate that there can be no military solution to the crisis in Libya. Force cannot resolve political fragmentation, nor can it build legitimate institutions.
We also express our concern over the spread of disinformation and hate speech and we condemn the violent demonstrations against the work of the UN in Libya. While the right to free speech, assembly and expression of opinion according to international law and the national laws of Libya must be guaranteed, there is no place for intimidation against UN staff or premises in Libya.
There must be accountability for those who are using violence to disrupt the ongoing efforts and contribute to possible armed escalation.
In conclusion, Madam/Mr. President, I would like to stress that this is a significant point for the future of Libya and its people. The foundations for progress are in place, and the prospects for stability exist.
It is now that the Libyan political actors must demonstrate serious commitment and will to reach a common agreement on holding national elections in Libya;
It is now that any attempt to disrupt the ongoing talks to find an agreement could seriously hinder the effort made and put Libya on a path on a longer uncertainty;
It is also now that the interests of the Libyan people must be taken as a compass for the path towards stability and prosperity of Libya.
I thank you.