UNSMIL Calls for Investigation into Violence of GNA Forces against Protesters

On Monday, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) said that the rights to peaceful assembly, protest and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights and fall within Libya’s obligations under international human rights law.

In a statement, the UNSMIL called for an immediate investigation into the excessive use of force by pro-GNA security personnel in Tripoli yesterday which resulted in the injury of a number of protesters.

These demonstrations were motivated by frustrations about sustained poor living conditions, shortages of electricity and water and a lack of service provision throughout the country.

It emphasized that, given the continuing immiseration of the Libyan people and the ever-present threat of renewed conflict, it is past time for Libyan leaders to put aside their differences and engage in a fully inclusive political dialogue as outlined by GNA Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj and House of Representatives Speaker Aguila Saleh in their declarations last week.

On Sunday, the UNSMIL also called for an immediate de-escalation and for all involved to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, allowing full freedom of movement and immediate access to health facilities.

UNSMIL urged for due process to be respected, for those arrested to be handed over to relevant judicial institutions and for those who are arbitrarily detained to be released immediately.