Tripoli: The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has successfully concluded the opening sessions of a structured dialogue held on December 14 and 15 in Tripoli. These sessions included over 120 members selected from eastern, southern, and western Libya, reflecting the country's geographical, political, social, and cultural diversity. According to Libyan News Agency, women made up approximately 35 percent of the dialogue participants. Additionally, representatives from youth groups, persons with disabilities, and individuals with diverse expertise in key thematic areas-such as governance, the economy, security, national reconciliation, and human rights-were also present. This initiative marks the first of its kind to be held within Libya and is a critical component of the Libyan-led, UN-facilitated political process, aiming to pave the way for national elections and the unification of state institutions. The UN mission reported that the opening meeting was attended by representatives of the Inte rnational Follow-up Committee on Libya, highlighting the international community's support for the UN-facilitated roadmap aimed at achieving a sustainable and comprehensive political solution. The mission emphasized that the selection process for dialogue members was based on clear and objective criteria. Candidates were required to have no record of human rights violations, corruption, or hate speech. Their selection was also based on proven knowledge or experience in at least one of the thematic areas, with a focus on credibility and a commitment to promoting the Libyan national interest. Additional considerations included the ability to engage constructively in a consensus-based dialogue and the capacity to provide practical policy and legislative recommendations. Full-time commitment to the dialogue process was also essential. UNSMIL noted that the structured dialogue is tasked with developing practical, consensus-based recommendations. These will help create the conditions necessary for credible electi ons, address pressing governance and economic challenges, advance security sector reforms, and support national reconciliation and human rights initiatives. The mission published a list of participants in the opening sessions, categorized by thematic areas such as economics, governance, national reconciliation and human rights, and security. Each category includes a broad representation of Libyan society, ensuring an inclusive approach to the dialogue's objectives.
