Working with partners on the ground and at the UN on a constructive way forward for Libya
Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council briefing on Libya
Thank you President. Thank you Martha for your briefing today. I would like to pay tribute to Stephanie Williams’ dedication to her role and welcome the Secretary-General’s efforts to find a new Special Representative. I will make four points.
Firstly, the UK is concerned about the recent violence in Tripoli and Misrata. Preservation of peace has been one of the successes of the past two years. There needs to be de-escalation to ensure this relative peace continues.
Combined with the protests that took place earlier this month, these events demonstrate the urgent need for the delivery of a Libyan-led and –owned, inclusive political process. And Libyan parties need to compromise and agree a pathway to achieve parliamentary and presidential elections.
Secondly, we urge Libyan actors must refrain from the politicisation of state institutions, including the National Oil Corporation. The Libyan people need to see the full resumption of oil production and the equitable distribution of the state’s oil wealth. However, this should not come at the expense of the integrity and independence of the National Oil Corporation, or jeopardise Libya’s progress towards stability, sovereignty, and national unity.
Thirdly, it is imperative, as you said Martha, that authorities respect and protect human rights across Libya. The United Kingdom remains very concerned about human rights abuses and violations identified in the latest interim-report of the Fact Finding Mission, and recent crackdowns on civil society.
Libyan authorities must build and deliver mechanisms for the safeguarding of human rights and enable civil society to flourish as a key component of accountability.
Lastly, the UK welcomes Operation Irini’s interdiction of a vessel carrying military vehicles intended for Libya and underscores all member states’ responsibility to comply fully with the UN arms embargo on Libya.
In conclusion, the UK reaffirms its readiness to work with Libya and all international partners on a constructive way forward, both on the ground in Libya and in the Council.
Thank you.