In her first media appearance since assuming the acting leadership of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Stephanie Khoury, Deputy Special Representative for Political Affairs, reaffirmed the mission’s dedication to assisting Libyans in avoiding the perils of division, violence, and resource waste.
Under the Libyans’ own direction, including women, youth, and various community groups, Khoury emphasized the mission’s ongoing efforts to facilitate a comprehensive political process owned and led by the Libyans themselves.
Following the resignation of the previous Special Representative, Abdullah Batelli, and pending the appointment of a new Special Representative, Khoury stated, “UNSMIL is also committed to supporting the conduct of inclusive, free, and fair national elections to restore legitimacy to Libyan institutions.”
She added that the mission would continue to support a comprehensive national reconciliation process, the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the control of arms proliferation, and the improvement of human rights and rule of law conditions in Libya.
Khoury highlighted the difficult living conditions faced by the Libyan people due to prolonged instability and underdevelopment, stating, “The Libyan people have suffered enough from the lack of stability and development.”
The official called on everyone to work towards the unity, sovereignty, stability, and prosperity of Libya, suggesting that the time has come to put an end to their suffering.
Appointed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in early March, Khoury arrived from the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan, where she served as the Director of Political Affairs.
She arrived in Libya on April 24 and took over as the acting head of the mission on May 16.
Expressing her joy at returning to Libya, where she had previously worked from 2011 to 2013, Khoury said she would strive to “support the Libyan people in achieving their aspirations for peace, stability, and democracy.”
She noted Libya’s rich and diverse cultural fabric holds a special place in her heart, which motivates her to fulfil the expectations the Libyans have from the UN.
