Tripoli, 24 September 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union Delegation to Libya, in partnership with the Ministry of Oil and Gas of Libya, launched the “Just and Sustainable Energy Transition” Conference today, under the EU-funded “Support to Energy Transition and Climate Change Mitigation in Libya” project.

This strategic event is part of the joint efforts between national and international partners to advance Libya’s transition toward a sustainable and inclusive energy future. The conference brings participants from government institutions, the international community, national and international oil companies, civil society, academia, and youth ambassadors from across Libya to foster dialogue on aligning Libya’s development pathway with global standards on environmental sustainability, responsible business practices and human rights. The two-day high-level event builds on the momentum of Libya’s first-ever Business and Human Rights conference held earlier in June.

“This conference is a milestone for Libya’s energy future," said Dr Khalifa Abdulsadiq, Minister of Oil and Gas. "Bringing partners together to shape a balanced transition that ensures energy security, drives sustainable development, and advances the goal of zero gas flaring by 2030.” 

“We are impressed by Libya’s commitment to reduce the impact of its crucial hydrocarbon industry and work towards a diverse and greener economy,” said Nicola Orlando, Ambassador of the European Union to Libya. “The Energy sector is at the centre of EU-Libya relations. Today’s conference represents a concrete step in advancing responsible business practices and environmental sustainability, making the industry ready for the future. Through our partnership with UNDP, we aim to create the conditions for a just energy transition that an energy industry that benefits all Libyans.”

As Libya continues to modernise its energy sector and diversify its economy, the conference focuses on strengthening national awareness of international legal and policy frameworks guiding responsible business conduct, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D). Participants explored how environmental and human rights due diligence can be applied across the energy value chain, and how public-private partnerships and institutional reforms can support inclusive, sustainable development.

A central feature of the event was the launch of the “Energy Expo,” a platform showcasing Libyan-led innovations, community-driven climate solutions, and promising practices from across the country.

“Supporting Libya’s transition to a green and sustainable economy requires a strong foundation of corporate responsibility, national ownership, and international collaboration,” said Sophie Kemkhadze, UNDP Resident Representative in Libya. “Through this EU-funded partnership and the commitment of our national counterparts, we are advancing a people-centred approach that balances environmental protection with equitable growth.”

The conference also leverages the Energy JEEL Initiative, a youth-led grassroots campaign supported by the Ministry of Oil and Gas and the National Oil Corporation. With over 900 trained ambassadors across Libya, the initiative has been actively engaging local communities on environmental protection, climate change, and corporate accountability. Its integration into the conference reflects a growing recognition of the role of youth and civil society in shaping Libya’s energy future.

This initiative is part of UNDP’s broader efforts to promote climate action, inclusive governance, and sustainable economic development in Libya. By strengthening national capacities, engaging communities, and aligning with international standards, UNDP aims to create the foundation for a just energy transition.

This initiative is implemented by UNDP under the EU-funded “Support to Energy Transition and Climate Change Mitigation in Libya” project. It builds on earlier efforts under UNDP’s Rule of Law programme to advance the Business and Human Rights agenda in Libya. Together, these initiatives reflect UNDP’s commitment to supporting national institutions in delivering a just energy transition grounded in environmental sustainability, human rights, and inclusive governance.