Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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February 18, 2026 Peace and security
Libya is facing a deepening political, economic, and institutional crisis that threatens the country's unity and stability, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Libya, Hannah Tetteh, warned in her address to the Security Council on Wednesday. She called for urgent action to overcome the protracted political impasse.
The Special Representative stated that efforts to advance the UN-brokered political roadmap have stalled, despite months of consultations between Libyan parties. While structured dialogue on governance, security, economics, and national reconciliation has produced proposals aimed at creating conditions for national elections, key political institutions remain unable to agree on the key steps necessary to advance the process.
Political impasse
According to the Special Representative, disagreements between the House of Representatives and the Supreme Council of State are undermining progress, and the unilateral actions of both bodies are further weakening public trust in the authorities. The failure to agree on electoral mechanisms prolongs political uncertainty and deepens public disillusionment with the institutions.
Despite the national political impasse, some positive developments have been noted at the local level. Over the past 14 months, local elections have been held in 119 municipalities, marking a significant step toward strengthening accountable local governance. The election of the country's second female mayor was particularly noted as a sign of increasing women's participation in politics.
At the same time, Tetteh warned of the dangerous deepening of institutional rifts, particularly in the judicial system. Competing constitutional courts in Tripoli and Benghazi are issuing contradictory rulings, effectively creating parallel legal systems, which threatens the effectiveness of governance, government accountability, and the political process itself. Maintaining the integrity of the judicial system, she emphasized, is key to preserving the integrity of the state.
Economic difficulties
The economic situation in Libya is also rapidly deteriorating. The devaluation of the national currency, rising prices, fuel shortages, and declining purchasing power are increasing pressure on the population. An estimated 30 percent of Libyans live below the poverty line, and the cost of food has risen significantly in recent years. The lack of a unified state budget and parallel government structures are contributing to financial instability and undermining confidence in the economy.
Security concerns
Security issues also remain a serious concern. Transnational criminal networks involved in drug, arms, and human trafficking continue to exploit weak state institutions and poorly controlled borders. Recent reports have documented serious human rights violations against migrants, including the discovery of mass graves and signs of torture among released individuals.
Despite numerous challenges, the UN mission is expanding its presence in Libya and strengthening its support for economic reform and the unification of security structures.
"The only way forward is a political solution that unites Libyans," Tetteh said, calling on the international community to continue supporting efforts to restore stability in the country.
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