An analytical report published by the British magazine Middle East Monitor has shed light on what it described as “Libya’s floundering between the wreckage of revolution and the mirage of reconstruction,” following the events of 2011 and the fall of the former regime.
The report indicated that Libya, home to Africa’s richest oil treasure, is suffering from the erosion of its oil wealth instead of benefiting its people, as the profits of exploration companies, amidst the chaos, have been diverted into channels of plunder, in the absence of a concept of nationhood. It explained that Libya’s oil enriches everyone except for ordinary citizens who face poverty, corruption, and violence.
The report added that Italy and France played “double games” driven by oil lust, poisoning any path towards unity. It noted that foreign powers sought to fill the vacuum after 2011 by deepening divisions and weakening Libyan sovereignty.
The report spoke of a fragmented power structure that stifles governance and elections and undermines hope, stating that the country is theoretically united but practically stuck in a fragile impasse. Democratic milestones are postponed for fear of losing influence, making democracy in Libya “a corrupt and endlessly postponed mirage.”
A Path Fraught with Obstacles
According to the report, reunification is only possible if tribal and factional tendencies are abandoned in favor of the nation. However, the path is filled with rubble, conflicting ambitions, and is guarded by an entrenched corrupt authority.
The report concluded by noting that the absence of a shared national vision or strong institutions will keep Libya stuck between its oil wealth and its deserts, with promises of prosperity always clashing with the reality of failure, violence, and an “illusory fragile peace.”