As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the resilience and determination that define Libya and its people. In the three months since I joined, I have seen firsthand how communities forge ahead despite challenges, laying the foundations for a brighter future. Guided by our 2023-2025 Country Programme Document, our efforts this year have been united by a single goal: to create opportunities that bring lasting change. 

Resilience Through Peacebuilding and Innovation 

From the streets of Kufra to the cultural landmarks of Benghazi, the progress of recovery and renewal is remarkable. Walking through Kufra’s newly rehabilitated stadium during my recent visit, I felt the vibrant energy of a community coming together. It was more than a football field; it was a space where hope was reignited, and unity restored. Across Libya, similar initiatives are transforming spaces once defined by conflict into hubs for dialogue and shared purpose, reflecting the resilience and determination of the Libyan people. 

In Benghazi, the ongoing restoration of AlManar Palace, in partnership with Benghazi Derna Construction Fund, embodies this same spirit of renewal, with UNDP supporting efforts to preserve this historic landmark as part of a broader commitment to safeguarding Libya’s cultural heritage. Although still under restoration, this historic landmark reflects a deep commitment to preserving Libya’s cultural heritage. Once reopened in 2025, the palace will bridge Libya’s storied past with its future aspirations, offering a space for cultural and community engagement.  

Youth have been pivotal in shaping these transformations. Programs like Maharah Coding School and Deraya equip young men and women with the skills to excel in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Meanwhile, the Ra’idat initiative, in partnership with UNSMIL, empowers young women with the leadership tools to engage in community and public life. These efforts are fostering a new generation of leaders ready to turn challenges into opportunities and contribute meaningfully to Libya’s stability and development. 

Paving the way for sustainable growth 

This year also marked significant steps toward sustainability. UNDP supported Libya’s efforts to align with global climate goals through the development of its first National Climate Change Strategy and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), by preparing a national greenhouse gas inventory and setting an important baseline for the NDC and the first National Communication to UNFCCC. These efforts culminated in Libya’s active participation at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and COP16 on Desertification in Riyadh, Libya is taking steps to address pressing challenges such as drought and land degradation, while laying the groundwork for sustainable climate resilience. 

A key milestone was the launch of the National Water Security Strategy, introducing an evidence-based approach to managing Libya’s water resources efficiently. With over 90% of Libya’s water supply reliant on rapidly depleting groundwater, the strategy emphasizes efficiency, innovation, and the critical links between water, energy, and food. It is a vital step toward preserving Libya’s resources for future generations.  

Libya is also home to significant renewable energy potential, particularly in solar and wind, offering significant opportunities for sustainable development. This year, we took important steps toward unlocking this potential, including training sessions and sharing experiences from other countries on photovoltaic systems and energy-efficient building codes. These initiatives are not only building technical capacity but also paving the way for a renewable energy sector that will drive economic growth and contribute to Libya’s long-term environmental sustainability.  

Strengthening democratic governance and inclusion 

The municipal council elections in December were a defining moment in Libya’s democratic journey—the first municipal elections managed by the High National Elections Commission (HNEC). Marking an important milestone for the HNEC, showcasing its capacity to lead such critical processes. More importantly, they represent a hopeful stepping stone toward the long-anticipated national elections. While inspiring in their scope, the elections also highlighted the need to address inclusivity, with women comprising just 29% of voters—a figure that underscores the work still required to ensure equitable participation in decision-making. 

This year, we focused on capacity building, legal mapping, and stakeholder collaboration to promote justice and reconciliation. A key aspect of this work has been addressing the issue of missing persons, a deeply personal challenge for many families in Libya. Through consultations with affected families, regional exchanges with civil society organizations, and partnerships with NGOs, we are supporting efforts to create pathways for justice and reconciliation. 

In parallel, the Second Regional Conference on Legal Reform brought together stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for enhancing women’s participation in governance. These efforts are vital steps toward building a political landscape that truly reflects Libya’s diversity and potential. 

Looking ahead