Security Council Authorizes One-Year Extension of Measures to Implement Arms Embargo against Libya

The Security Council on 31 May decided to renew measures designed to implement the arms embargo against Libya for another year, in particular those authorizing Member States, acting nationally or through regional organizations, to inspect vessels on the high seas off Libya’s coast believed to be in violation of the arms embargo imposed on that country.

The resolution was adopted by a vote of 9 in favour (Ecuador, France, Japan, Malta, Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States) to none against, with 6 abstentions (Algeria, China, Guyana, Mozambique, Russian Federation, Sierra Leone). With the adoption, the Council extended the authorizations set out in its resolution 2684 (2023) for a further 12 months.

The representative of Sierra Leone, also speaking for Algeria, Guyana and Mozambique, noted that the four countries abstained on the adoption because the proposed amendments on strengthening the role of the 1970 Committee in the decision-making about the disposal of prohibited seized items were not reflected in the text adopted.  Despite several calls on the penholders to consider the legitimate concerns of the four countries for greater transparency and strengthening of the Sanctions Committee’s role in the disposal of seized items, they were not appropriately given due consideration.  Thus, the resolution did not adequately address their key concerns nor “reflect the spirit of compromise that guided our deliberations”, he stressed.

He further noted that rigorous and transparent enforcement of the arms embargo is crucial to de-escalate violence, protect civilians and create an environment conducive for political solution in Libya.