Topic B: Libya
The State of Libya has been lacking a stable authority that the citizens can depend on, ever since the fall of their long-term leader, Muammar Gaddafi. It has directly led to a power vacuum, with rival governments and groups separately taking over security and enforcement in the west and the east, civil war has quickly ensued. The residents of Libya are the ones feeling the effects, they have become refugees in their own country – their standard of living is slowly decreasing along with the political situation in Libya. Colombia prioritizes the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire between rival groups and mediation between the GNA and the LNA. In this current day and age with constant poverty and conflict, states must make the decision to take on their responsibilities under international law. Colombia has recently taken in 1.5 million Venezuelan refugees in a defense of brotherhood and unity. Though, unfortunately, the Republic of Colombia itself is not in an ideal situation or location to tend to Libyans in danger. Colombia still faces the remains of its own political rivalry similar to the Libya conflict. The disputes between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia have left the country in a state of weakness, even unable to provide for its own civilians and current migrants. This internal situation causes Libyans settling in Colombia to be very unrealistic, with such great cultural and physical distances. In the end, efforts must be made in Libya to address the root of the problem, finding common ground between the multiple authorities in the country. The Libya situation is not primarily a conflict that can afford solutions that take years to implement successfully, it is affecting human lives and the entire stability of a country at this very moment. The upcoming decade in Libya will be determined by the actions taken. Thus, Colombia advocates these following solution ideas – able states taking in Libyans, peace agreements between the two major groups and aid for local NGOs to provide assistance if relocation is not reasonable. First, states that have the immediate resources to care for Libyans seeking refuge, should try to take them in for the time being, as much as the current condition of their country allows. During a civil war, leaving a country can become a difficult endeavor. The more geographically close a country is, the more the danger can be reduced. Secondly, local NGOs, like the International Rescue Committee Libya (IRC) can be adequately supported with materials and funds to assist in-need Libyans from directly in the country’s borders.
- Rena Foo
