Libya’s peace and conflict context is complex. When humanitarian and development activities are delivered in a way that does not take the context into account, they run the risk of worsening conflict dynamics while missing opportunities to promote peace.
The Conflict Sensitive Assistance in Libya (CSA) forum was the world’s first multi-stakeholder conflict sensitivity facility, established by PCi in 2012 and running until 2022. It advised diplomatic, humanitarian and development actors working in Libya on how to be more conflict sensitive. Through the CSA Forum, PCi provided tailored conflict sensitivity training, regularly updated local and national conflict analysis, issue-specific briefing notes, and ad hoc guidance for the staff of Embassies, UN agencies and INGOs operating in Libya. PCi also developed a Libya-specific conflict sensitivity manual and produced regular conflict sensitivity analysis of specific geographic locations and thematic areas of intervention.
The CSA programme has helped to strengthen the conflict sensitivity of humanitarian and development activities in Libya. As a result of analysis or advice received from the CSA Forum, over fifty donors, UN agencies and international organisations have taken concrete steps to integrate conflict sensitivity into their programming.
Libya is characterised by political violence, polarisation, and instability. Since the 2011 revolution, rival authorities have been fighting over power, resulting in a constant division. The two contested governments in the east and west are a prominent example of the ongoing division. Armed groups also have significant influence, often aligning with politicians and forming alliances with other armed groups, exacerbating instability.
Furthermore, regional and international actors have been involved since Muammar Gaddafi’s overthrow, supporting and funding factions, adding complexity to the situation. The ongoing power struggle has led to dire consequences, including humanitarian crises, forced displacement, and impeded prospects for sustainable peace and development.
Government of Switzerland, FDFA
European Union Delegation to Libya
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