TRIPOLI — On World Press Freedom Day, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) calls on all Libyan actors to respect and protect freedom of expression and to guarantee that journalists, members of civil society actors, men and women across Libya and all individuals can exercise their rights without fear of intimidation, harassment, arrest or reprisals.
As Libya works to unify its institutions, a free, independent and safe media environment is not optional—it is indispensable. Journalists and civic voices play a vital role in observing and documenting developments across the country, elevating the concerns of communities, countering misinformation and disinformation, and holding institutions and actors to account. Silencing these voices only deepens public mistrust and prolongs instability.
Participants of the Structured Dialogue, which is a key pillar of the UNSMIL-facilitated political roadmap, have consistently underscored that freedom of expression, an open civic space and the safety of journalists are essential conditions for credible, inclusive elections and for rebuilding trust between institutions and the public.
Yet civic space in Libya remains under significant pressure.
UNSMIL is deeply concerned by continued reports of intimidation, harassment, arbitrary arrest and detention, prosecution, and reprisals targeting journalists, human rights defenders, civil society actors, activists and dissenting voices. The reported use of cybercrime, counter-terrorism and penal provisions to restrict legitimate expression is particularly troubling. These practices risk criminalising free speech and undermining the rule of law.
All allegations of attacks, threats and killings must be promptly, impartially and transparently investigated. Perpetrators must be held accountable. Impunity for such violations is unacceptable and further erodes public trust in institutions.
The Mission calls for an immediate end to arbitrary detention, harassment, online and offline attacks, and the misuse of legal frameworks to suppress peaceful expression. It urges all authorities to uphold their obligations under international human rights law and to take concrete steps to protect journalists and ensure a safe and enabling environment for media and civil society.
Protecting press freedom in Libya is both a fundamental human rights obligation and a strategic imperative. Without it, there can be no meaningful public participation, no credible electoral process, and no sustainable path toward peace, stability and unity.
UNSMIL stands ready to support Libyan stakeholders in advancing reforms that safeguard freedom of expression and strengthen an independent and professional and resilient media sector.