Statement by Latvia at the UN Security Council Briefing on situation in Libya 18 August, 2026
Madam President,
We thank SRSG Tetteh for her briefing and Ms. Bek for the insightful remarks.
We also welcome the participation of the Representative of Libya to this meeting.
It has been one year since SRSG Tetteh presented the Political roadmap, aimed at facilitating credible elections and fostering long-term stability in Libya.
We welcome the efforts of the SRSG and the entire UNSMIL team, and we reiterate our strong support for their work.
We all know that the process has not been easy.
But despite a period of uncertainty and difficult choices, we note that the progress achieved through the convenings of the smaller 4+4 group demonstrates that there is a momentum. The agreement on the mechanism for appointing the Head of the High National Election Commission is a positive indication of this.
We urge all parties to build on this and continue their engagement on a path towards national elections in Libya and an inclusive Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process.
Following the conclusion of the structured dialogue, it is important that its recommendations are duly considered and taken forward.
Madam President,
Despite the progress made, worrying signs remain, and Libya's security and economic situation continues to be fragile.
Recent violence in Benghazi, Zawiya and Surman, leading to loss of life and endangering civilians, only highlight the persistent volatility and the risk of further escalation. We call for those responsible to be held accountable and all actors to exercise maximum restraint, and prioritize dialogue as the only viable path forward.
We also note the use of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech for political purposes and call on the Libyan authorities to take all necessary measures to protect UN personnel, premises and operations, in accordance with international law.
Another point of concern, the judiciary remains divided, which not only has implications for the prospects of national unity, but also undermines public trust in state institutions.
We call on all parties to refrain from forum shopping, negotiate in good faith and put the interest of the Libyan people above narrow self-interest.
Today’s powerful and personal testimony by Ms. Bek also highlighted that Libya faces intersecting climate and security risks. As stated during the stakeout before this meeting, we call on the Libyan authorities to integrate climate risks into national planning by strengthening coordination and institutional capacity.
Madam President,
In conclusion,
The road towards stability, and inclusive and credible elections in Libya can only be completed:
- if the interests of the Libyan people are put first;
- and if there is a constructive dialogue and stronger coordination among the main political actors.
I thank you.
UN WEB TV recording: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k17/k17e5guxr7