The United Kingdom has reiterated the indispensable role of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) in fostering political reconciliation within the North African nation. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Ambassador Archie Young, the UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, stressed that UNSMIL must remain central to efforts supporting a lasting political solution.
Ambassador Young welcomed the recent conclusion of the Structured Dialogue and the subsequent publication of its recommendations. He commended the participants for their work in achieving consensus on complex issues, which he stated demonstrated the Libyan people's desire for political progress. The UK representative urged all parties to engage seriously with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General's roadmap towards holding elections, noting that recent UN-facilitated discussions in smaller formats indicate that progress is achievable when there is sufficient political will.
A significant point of concern raised by the UK was the issue of irregular migration. Recent protests directed at the UNHCR and UNSMIL were highlighted as reflecting frustration among Libyan communities regarding this challenge. Ambassador Young expressed worry over misinformation and disinformation that he believes are fuelling inflammatory rhetoric about the UN's work in Libya, emphasising the vital importance of ensuring the safety and security of UN staff and their ability to carry out their mandates.
The UK strongly condemned criminal gangs exploiting organised immigration crime, which are contributing to insecurity both within Libya and beyond its borders. Ambassador Young called for the dismantling of these networks, the closure of informal detention centres, and a strengthening of protections for migrants and refugees. These measures are seen as crucial to addressing the humanitarian and security dimensions of irregular migration.
In a positive development, the UK welcomed the successful conclusion of Exercise Flintlock last month. This exercise saw eastern and western armed forces in Libya unite for joint training in Sirte, an event described as an important confidence-building step. The UK encouraged further efforts to build on this progress, aiming to support the broader reunification of Libya's military and security institutions, which is considered essential for long-term stability.
Ultimately, the responsibility for agreeing a sustainable political settlement now rests with Libyan actors, according to the UK. The Libyan people, Ambassador Young concluded, deserve institutions capable of delivering security, stability, and opportunity. The UK urged all parties to prioritise the national interest and commit to the UN-facilitated political process.