Stephanie Khoury, Acting Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), leads diplomatic efforts to advance the political process in the country. On September 14, 2025, she met in Benghazi with 14 activists and representatives of civil society from eastern and southern Libya to strengthen dialogue and support civil participation in national reconstruction and peace.
Khoury’s mission includes the creation of an advisory committee of Libyan experts to resolve crucial political issues that will enable elections to be held under the framework of the Libyan Political Agreement and the roadmap of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum. In previous reports, Khoury has warned about the persistent division between the rival governments in Tripoli and Benghazi, urging all parties to avoid any actions that threaten stability.
The political reunification of the country remains one of the greatest challenges after years of conflict, and the diplomatic work of the UN—through Khoury—aims to promote mechanisms that facilitate a unified government. Moreover, negotiations with regional leaders and engagement with local civil society are essential to opening pathways toward lasting peace.
Therefore, her September 14th meeting symbolizes a step toward direct cooperation with social actors to foster reconciliation and stability in a fractured Libya.
