TUNIS  – Representatives from the Government of National Unity Ministries of Defense and Interior, Prime Minister Office, the Libyan National Army, the National Security Council, the National Programme for Demobilization, Disarmament and Reintegration and 15 other military and security institutions and actors met in Tunis 30 and 31 May to discuss adopting a common code of conduct.

Discussion during the workshop, convened under the auspices of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), focused largely on collaboratively reflecting on a draft common code of conduct prepared by Libyan officers. The group also considered principles of Libyan laws, international humanitarian law, and lessons learned in similar contexts across the world.

UNSMIL officer-in-charge, Deputy Special Representative for the Secretary General Stephanie Koury oversaw the discussion.

DSRSG Koury, in her remarks at the meeting, said she hoped establishing a unified code of conduct “can lead to improved stability, security, civilian protection, and respect for human rights. and contribute to creating a conducive environment for a political process.”

“Globally, good governance starts with how security institutions act to support the rule of law,” she said. “When security institutions perform unsystematically, sustained prosperity and the well-being of citizens remain elusive.”

The group generally agreed on the importance of a code of conduct and the importance of maintaining dialogue across institutions and actors.

“As we continue to encourage and support the unification of state institutions, let us remember that the path to reform is not easy, and it requires patience, persistence, and a shared vision,” DSRSG Koury told the assembly. “But I am confident that with your commitment and dedication, you can make significant strides.”