Denver – During the 48th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC), the UN’s HRC commended Morocco’s commitments towards mediating peaceful dialogue between Libya’s opposing factions.
Officials specifically highlighted the 2015 Skhirat Agreement’s results for its “importance of protecting and ensuring the rights of the Libyan people.” Officials noted that the agreement marked a significant milestone towards a “peaceful transition to a democratic future.”
The Skhirat agreement also highlighted the development of a multilateral framework. During the mediation process, mediators determined that improving the political, military, and economic conditions in Libya would be necessary for establishing a long-term and peaceful democracy in the country.
As the UN and international mediators, such as Morocco, have recognized progress in the country, the HCR also emphasized the need for the High Commissioner for Human Rights to assist in the further development of Libya’s judicial system, to ensure the protection of human rights in the country.
The Skhirat agreement was one of the first successful international attempts to unite the warring factions in Libya’s divisive civil war. At Skhirat, international mediators helped to form the Government of National Accord (GNA), the precursor to the current recognized Government of National Unity (GNU).
This year, Libya is scheduled to hold a presidential election in an attempt to end the country’s warring divisions. UN Deputy Head of the Libyan mission Stephanie Williams highlighted the upcoming elections as a “clear path out of the current crisis,” and affirmed she would work to ensure voting access was available for all Libyans.
