Tripoli: The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, Ms. Ulrika Richardson, recently convened an online discussion to address the economic challenges facing the country, emphasizing the importance of transparency and inclusivity in formulating effective recommendations. The dialogue aimed to improve living standards for Libyan citizens by focusing on the economic track within the structured dialogue.
According to Libyan News Agency, Ms. Richardson addressed questions regarding the inclusivity principle, highlighting the importance of involving diverse groups, such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities, to ensure genuine Libyan ownership of the outcomes. She noted that women’s representation in the dialogue reached 35% and mentioned the establishment of the Libyan Women’s Assembly by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) to boost women’s participation in key issues.
The discussion also underscored the need for effective solutions in resource management, stressing the reinvestment of revenues into crucial sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Over sixty participants from across Libya expressed concerns about transparency and limited economic opportunities, particularly for youth and women, and called for economic diversification and an expedited agreement on a unified budget for fair resource distribution.
Participants questioned the role of the United Nations in Libya, seeking clarity on its support during this critical period. The session followed a prior governance track discussion and precedes another on the security track scheduled for April 16th.
The economic track, one of four within the structured dialogue, focuses on Libyan-led recommendations to enhance macroeconomic stability, improve resource management, and support economic growth and diversification. Priorities include developing public financial management, enhancing transparency, and establishing accountable economic governance to combat corruption and restore public trust.