TRIPOLI - Three members of the Economic Track of the Structured Dialogue engaged with Libyans from across the country during a live online discussion on Tuesday. Over 90 minutes, they presented the recommendations developed through the dialogue process and answering questions on how the proposed measures could help address Libya’s long-standing economic challenges.
Opening the discussion, the speakers, Mr. Abdulrahim Al-Shaibani, Dr. Hamida Abo Roniya, and Dr. Najia Al Bueizi, explained that the Economic Track examined Libya's economic performance over the period from 2012 to 2025, identifying structural weaknesses that continue to undermine economic stability. These include heavy reliance on oil revenues, rising public debt, high levels of recurrent government spending, limited investment in development projects and a lack of transparency and reliable economic data. Members warned that without meaningful reform these trends could continue to place pressure on public finances, foreign currency reserves and the value of the Libyan dinar.
Recommendations across six priority areas were highlighted: public financial governance, oil and energy governance, economic restructuring and diversification, balanced regional development and social justice, economic policy reform, and transparency and accountability. Members emphasised that the recommendations are intended to form a coherent package, with reforms in one area supporting progress in others. They stressed that strengthening institutions, improving financial management, expanding the role of the private sector and diversifying the economy beyond oil are all essential to building long-term resilience.
Members also outlined proposals to promote more equitable development throughout Libya. This included strengthening decentralisation, improving public services and infrastructure across all regions, expanding opportunities for young people, supporting entrepreneurship and aligning education with labour market needs. The discussion also highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation and artificial intelligence in preparing Libya's economy for future opportunities.
During the question-and-answer session with the public, a number of participants raised issues ranging from implementation of the recommendations and regional development to the management of Libya's foreign currency reserves, digital transformation and support for local economic initiatives.
Economic Track members acknowledged that the recommendations are not legally binding but said they provide an evidence-based framework that can guide future governments and institutions. They also recognised that successful implementation will depend on political consensus, stronger and unified institutions and improved access to reliable economic information.
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.
