The Peacebuilding Network brought together leadership figures from civil society, local government, media, academia, and traditional institutions from across the country, working to build peace at local and national levels. Members of the Peacebuilding Network represented more than 20 Libyan communities.
The network allowed members to share their perceptions on events affecting conflict and peace in Libya and to develop common understandings of the context. This helped to build trust between members of different communities and to identify opportunities to collaborate on practical peacebuilding action.
Through the Peacebuilding Network, members have had an impact on peace in ways that would not be possible at the individual level. For example, The Peacebuilding Network participated in the Libyan Political Dialogue Platform (LPDP), convened by UNSMIL to generate consensus on key peacebuilding issues, and presented recommendations that were jointly generated. Members collaborated to identify entry points to influence peacebuilding policy of the Government of National Unity.
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.
This project was funded by:
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