In the decade since Libya’s 17 February Revolution, we have seen major global changes: growing challenges such as climate change, Covid-19, organised crime and terrorism; rapid technological change; rising powers especially in the Indo-Pacific. As Ambassador, I often hear from Libyans who are curious not just about the UK’s approach to Libya, but also about the role we play in the wider world. On Monday 16 March, the UK Government set out its vision for that role, and I wanted to take the opportunity to explain what I think that means for our work in Libya.
The “Integrated Review” sets out the global role we will play in the next five years. Our over-arching aim is to be a force for good. That is underpinned by our fundamental values of democracy, human rights, the rule of law, freedom of speech and faith, and equality. Globally, our work will focus on five key objectives: solving global challenges, investing in science and technology; defending democracy and human rights; championing the free flow of trade, capital and knowledge; and taking a more robust approach to security and deterrence.
This matters for Libya. In particular, the Review puts an emphasis on the UK playing a more active role to resolve conflict. We want to help to address the drivers of conflict, promote effective governance, democratic institutions and the rule of law and use our global sanctions regime to pursue those who abuse human rights. And we want to play an even bigger part in international institutions, like the UN, where our permanent seat at the Security Council and our penholder role on Libya give us a platform to influence and drive action from the international community.
In the years to come, we will increasingly bring together our diplomatic, security, defence and development capabilities to support the Libyan people in their journey towards peace, stability, democracy and prosperity. The Integrated Review shows how all our work is driven by a single approach and a single set of core values.
In our changing world we face great challenges – not least at the moment the COVID 19 pandemic. However, if we face them together, it is possible to envisage a better future. That includes a better future for the people of Libya.
You can read more about the Integrated Review here.