Libyan General Elections 2021: Discussion Series with Libyan Leaders - Fathi Bashagha (English)

A conversation with Fathi Bashagha

Following a decade of war and rifts in Libya, a U.N.-facilitated dialogue led to the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in March 2021. The GNU has been tasked with leading the country toward long-awaited presidential and parliamentary elections commencing this December — elections that are crucial to Libya’s transition and could facilitate further governmental unification, community reconciliation, economic recovery and the basis for rule of law and good governance.

While the GNU has taken significant steps to arrange elections, it still faces numerous challenges related to the presence of external military powers, conflicting interests among Libyan politicians and armed groups, economic and health problems and sporadic violence. Libyan leaders that view the elections as a means for change in the country and as a path toward a representative political system face complex impediments that require a consultative and inclusive approach that fosters stability and security over the long-term in Libya.

On October 27, USIP held the first in a series of public discussions with Libyan leaders connected to the elections scheduled in the coming months. These events will dive into complex questions regarding efforts to prevent electoral violence, the electoral process itself and leaders’ visions for restoring peace and stability in Libya.

This first discussion featured Fathi Bashagha, who has held several important positions since the 2011 revolution, including as a member of the Libyan Military Council and the Libyan House of Representatives and as minister of interior in the Government of National Accord from 2018-2021.

Continue the conversation on Twitter with #LibyaElectionsUSIP.

The event was streamed in Arabic and English. To watch in Arabic, please visit

For more information about this event, please visit

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The United States Institute of Peace is a national, nonpartisan, independent institute, founded by Congress and dedicated to the proposition that a world without violent conflict is possible, practical and essential for U.S. and global security. In conflict zones abroad, the Institute works with local partners to prevent, mitigate, and resolve violent conflict. To reduce future crises and the need for costly interventions, USIP works with governments and civil societies to build local capacities to manage conflict peacefully. The Institute pursues its mission by linking research, policy, training, analysis and direct action to support those who are working to build a more peaceful, inclusive world. Learn more about USIP