TRIPOLI — Members of the Structured Dialogue’s Governance Track convened in a live virtual discussion with the public on Thursday. to exchange views on Libya’s political challenges and explore practical pathways toward unified governance, credible elections, and strengthened state institutions.
The conversation brought together a diverse group of 30 in the online room, and with the live recording being viewed 130 more times. Participants reflected on the persistent obstacles facing the political process, while emphasizing the importance of inclusive dialogue in shaping sustainable and nationally owned solutions.
Three members of the Governance Track, Ms. Marwa Alshaybani, Mr. Mustafa Bahbah, and Mr. Osama KhairAllah, presented the track’s outcomes and responded to a range of questions. Participants highlighted that the ongoing division of executive authorities remains a central challenge hindering the political progress. Many stressed the urgent need for a unified government capable of exercising authority across the country and restoring public trust. They noted that fragmentation of institutions continues to obstruct decision-making and delay critical reforms necessary for stability.
A central focus of the discussion was the importance of establishing the right conditions for elections and focusing on ending the transitionary stage. Some members warned against new transitionary stages while others advocated for the need to end the current division in the country
Members observed that past electoral efforts faltered due to the absence of a clear and agreed legal and constitutional framework. Participants emphasized that elections must be carefully prepared through consensus-based arrangements, supported by clear legal foundations, and shielded from political interference. Several speakers cautioned against rushing the process, stressing that credibility and inclusivity are essential to ensuring lasting legitimacy.
Members also exchanged views on the constitutional basis required for the transitional period. While opinions varied, many participants supported the idea of adopting an interim constitutional framework to enable elections, while deferring the development of a permanent constitution to an elected body at a later stage. They further emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Libyan people play a direct role in shaping the country’s constitutional future.
The discussion addressed longstanding challenges linked to centralization, with participants calling for a gradual shift toward stronger local governance structures aimed at improving service delivery and ensuring a fairer distribution of resources. Members stressed that empowering municipalities and enhancing oversight mechanisms would contribute to greater accountability and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
Despite differing perspectives, participants agreed on the overarching goal of advancing a political process that leads to unified institutions, credible elections, and sustainable governance reforms.
The Structured Dialogue was made up of approximately 120 Libyans from across the country and including men, women, youth, persons with disabilities and representatives of cultural and linguistic components. They began meeting in December 2025 and held 18 sessions in person and online across four tracks: National Reconciliation and Human Rights, Security, Economy and Governance.
On 7 June, members of all tracks presented their conclusions to nearly 200 participants including SD members, representatives of the diplomatic community in Libya, and UN support team. The recommendations are available for download on UNSMIL website.
