Legal scholar urges inclusive dialogue as Libya’s divisions deepen

Prominent legal scholar meets political leaders and civil society figures, warning that entrenched institutions are stalling reform.

Dr Ramadan Benzeer, Professor of International Law and Human Rights and Secretary-General of the Arab-European Centre for Human Rights, has urged greater international engagement and stronger public participation to help Libya overcome its prolonged political impasse.

Dr Benzeer made the remarks during a high-level meeting at the headquarters of the Voice of the People Party and the Coalition of Libyan Parties, where discussions centred on Libya’s deepening political divisions and the latest briefing to the UN Security Council by Hanna Tetteh, head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

The meeting is part of a series of consultations Dr Benzeer has recently held with Libyan civil society. Earlier this week, he met representatives from the National Action Coordination Committee, members of the Libyan Women’s Union, youth leaders, academics, and media figures to stress the urgency of fostering a more inclusive political process.

“Libya cannot break its political deadlock without the full participation of all segments of society,” Dr Benzeer said, warning that the grip of bodies such as the House of Representatives and the High Council of State continues to hinder reform and delay progress.

Dr Benzeer called for a more assertive role for the United Nations, arguing that Libya’s transition and stability require international backing and stronger dialogue between institutions and the public.

Under his leadership, the Arab-European Centre for Human Rights has intensified its engagement with grassroots movements, civil society organisations, and political parties to bridge divides and encourage consensus as Libya seeks a path forward.