The UN mission in Libya (UNSMIL) expressed its concern about the excessive use of force against demonstrators and the detention of civilians, noting “an increase in reports of human rights violations, including arbitrary arrest and detention, restrictions imposed on freedom of movement and expression, as well as the right to peaceful assembly and protest.”
In a statement on the latest developments in Libya, the mission indicated that “reports speak of ongoing violations and abuses of human rights in Sirte. The violations include the killing of one civilian, the arbitrary arrest of another number of civilians, and the forcible and unlawful entry to private property.”
The statement pointed out that “Libya is witnessing a remarkable turn of events that confirms the urgent need to return to a comprehensive and integrated political process that would meet the aspirations of the Libyan people for a government that properly represents them.”
The United Nations Support Mission in Libya urged “calm, application of the rule of law and preservation of the rights of all citizens to peacefully express their views.”
The mission statement warned against the widespread use of hate speech and incitement to violence, noting that its aim is to sow discord between Libyans and deepen polarization and tear apart the social fabric in the country at the expense of the Libyan-Libyan solution.
