Ulrika Richardson, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary‑General and Resident Coordinator in Libya, took part in the International Anti‑Corruption Day ceremony held today in Tripoli, where she warned that corruption in Libya has reached dangerous levels, describing it as “a cancer spreading aggressively” with deep effects on the economy, education, living standards, and public trust in state institutions.
Richardson emphasized that confronting corruption requires strong, independent oversight institutions, stressing the importance of enabling bodies such as the Administrative Control Authority and the Anti‑Corruption Authority to carry out their duties with full professionalism and autonomy. She underscored the need for “tangible results” that citizens can feel in their daily lives.
She explained that widespread corruption and impunity are obstructing progress and slowing economic recovery, noting that its impact extends into financial and economic systems, drives inflation, and burdens ordinary citizens in their daily lives. She stressed that accountability and strengthened transparency in public administration are essential at both the national and international levels.
Richardson praised the launch of the new electronic platform for government tenders and expenditures, which will begin operating next week, calling it an important step toward strengthening trust between citizens and state institutions and improving the quality of financial data and procedures.
Under this year’s UN theme, “United with Youth Against Corruption… Shaping the Integrity of Tomorrow,” she highlighted the essential role of youth, women, civil society, and the media in promoting integrity and holding officials accountable. She called for expanding civic space and empowering local actors to monitor public funds.
Richardson concluded by reaffirming the United Nations’ commitment — including the UN Office on Drugs and Crime — to supporting Libya in combating corruption and pursuing financial crimes, stating that the ultimate goal is to ensure a better future for Libyan citizens.
