Norway concerned about developments in Libya

“The abduction of Libya’s Prime Minister Ali Zeidan gives further cause for concern about the political and security situation in Libya,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide. 

Libya’s Prime Minister Ali Zeidan was abducted on Thursday morning. A few hours later it was reported that he had been released.

Libya has been trying for some time to gain control over the many militia groups in the country and integrate them into the national security apparatus. This has been a very difficult process. Internal power struggles have also brought important political processes, such as the development of the constitution, to a standstill. In addition there have been widespread strikes and conflict in the oil industry, and this has had serious consequences for the oil-dependent economy.

“I was encouraged by the parliamentary elections in 2012, which showed that Libya was able to implement democratic processes. Now all the key actors in the country must work together, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, to establish a properly functioning state. This means that political parties and militia groups must put the country’s interests before their own,” said Mr Eide.

Libya’s borders, particularly to the south, are vulnerable and lack adequate control. This has made it possible for terrorist groups to set up bases in the country.

“The problems in Libya cannot be seen in isolation from the challenges facing the rest of the Sahel region. The international community must assist Libya in this critical period,” said Mr Eide.