Eleanor Sanders, the UK’s Ambassador for Human Rights to the United Nations, has called on Libyan authorities to address human rights violations and uphold the principle of accountability. Speaking before the Human Rights Council in Geneva during the Universal Periodic Review of Libya, Sanders stressed the United Kingdom’s profound concern over ongoing abuses. These include arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and torture, which she stated are being perpetrated in an environment of near-total impunity.
The British envoy stressed that lasting peace and stability are essential cornerstones for advancing human rights within the nation. She urged meaningful participation in the ongoing political process spearheaded by the UN.
Despite expressing concern, Sanders acknowledged positive measures taken by Libya’s Government of National Unity. These steps included extending the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court in Libya until 2027 and supporting the renewal of technical assistance provided by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
To ensure accountability, Sanders recommended unrestricted access for investigation and monitoring. She called for UN bodies and NGOs to be granted unfettered entry to all areas, including detention facilities, and for full cooperation with current investigations into extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances. She concluded her statement by demanding that Libya end the systemic mistreatment of migrants and refugees. This requires closing abusive detention centres and establishing an asylum system that is fair and compliant with international law.
