Khoury visits Tarhuna as UN shapes new roadmap for Libya

Stephanie Khoury, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Political Affairs, visited the city of Tarhuna on Wednesday as part of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya’s (UNSMIL) ongoing consultations to prepare a new political roadmap for the country.

During her visit, Khoury held meetings with a wide cross-section of local stakeholders, including members of the municipal council, community leaders, academics, representatives of women’s and youth groups, civil society organisations, and security officials.

Discussions focused on the recommendations of the UN-backed advisory committee. Participants noted that further internal consultations would take place before they finalise their proposals and feedback.

Several attendees expressed disappointment at the protracted political deadlock and voiced concerns over institutional divisions, economic deterioration, and the prolonged nature of the transitional phase.

They also conveyed frustration with Libyan leaders, the international community, and the UN, calling for an inclusive political process to break the impasse and address what they described as longstanding marginalisation of Tarhuna’s population.

Women’s representatives stressed the importance of strengthening women’s political participation and tackling gender-based violence, particularly online.

Municipal officials highlighted the need for increased support to improve access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and support for persons with disabilities.

Khoury also held a separate meeting with families of victims of the mass killings in Tarhuna, who reiterated their call for a comprehensive transitional justice process centred on victims’ rights.

Khoury affirmed the UN’s support for their demands and emphasised the need to accelerate efforts to identify missing persons, ensure accountability, and provide reparations.

Concluding her visit, Khoury reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the Libyan people’s aspirations for peace, stability, and legitimate, unified institutions. She also commended the efforts of the local community in promoting social cohesion.