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Overview

Libya’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR), submitted in July 2024, builds on its first review in 2020 to assess progress across all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under Agenda 2030. Led by the Ministry of Planning for Sustainable Development, the review process was strengthened through the reconstitution of the National SDG Committee at a higher level (Ministerial Decision No. 281/2023) to ensure cross-sectoral coordination. An executive preparation plan, approved by the Minister, established working groups for each SDG, defined a timeline, and set up monitoring mechanisms. The VNR process adopted an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach, engaging civil society, the private sector, youth, women, parliamentarians, persons with disabilities, and oversight bodies through the Libyan Sustainable Development Forum and a series of workshops. The submitted documents reflect Libya’s strategic efforts to integrate SDG objectives into national policies and planning frameworks. At the same time, the country continues to face significant challenges, including ongoing conflict, resource constraints, and institutional capacity gaps, which have impacted progress toward many of the SDGs.

Recommendations

  1. Strengthen Political Stability and Security: Achieving lasting peace and holding free, fair elections are essential to unlock progress across all SDGs.
  2. Diversify the Economy Beyond Oil: Reduce dependence on hydrocarbons by promoting SMEs, renewable energy, and non-oil exports for resilient growth.
  3. Rebuild and Modernise Infrastructure: Prioritise reconstruction of damaged health, education, and utility facilities to restore essential services.
  4. Improve Governance and Transparency: Enhance public financial management, curb corruption, and increase disclosure to rebuild citizen trust.
  5. Enhance Fiscal Reform and Efficiency: Gradually reform subsidies and taxation to ensure fiscal sustainability and direct support to those most in need.
  6. Strengthen Institutional Capacity: Unify fragmented institutions and improve inter-ministerial coordination for coherent SDG implementation.
  7. Invest in Data and Statistics: Complete the national census and modernise statistical systems to enable accurate monitoring and evidence-based policy.
  8. Expand Climate Adaptation and Environmental Management: Accelerate afforestation, water conservation, and renewable projects to counter desertification and climate impacts.
  9. Promote Social Inclusion and Equity: Address regional, gender, and youth disparities through targeted employment, education, and protection programmes.
  10. Foster International and Regional Cooperation: Deepen engagement with UN agencies and regional partners to mobilise technical expertise and development finance.
  11. Strengthen Education and Health Services: Ensure consistent quality and access especially in rural and conflict-affected areas by improving staffing and infrastructure.
  12. Support Migration Management and Social Resilience: Develop coordinated policies with neighbours and international partners to manage migration and reduce service strain.
  13. Enhance SDG Data Integration and Performance Tracking: Strengthen national statistical systems to systematically measure, monitor, and report progress across all 17 SDGs and 234 performance indicators. It is highly recommended to Libya to measure SDG performance on these indicators and show case evidence in facts and figures.

Conclusion

Libya’s 2024 VNR presents a nation making determined strides toward the 2030 Agenda despite enduring conflict and institutional fragility. The report records significant achievements, including near-universal access to education (99.66% primary enrolment), health (99.8% skilled birth attendance, maternal mortality at 12 per 100,000), and energy (99.8% electrification). Targeted social protection measures such as the Economic and Social Development Fund benefiting around 230,000 families with USD 8.1 billion in support, monthly student and family grants, and marriage assistance schemes have strengthened social inclusion. Progress is also visible in water and sanitation coverage (85% with safe water, 99% with safe sanitation), environmental initiatives such as the “100 Million Trees by 2030” campaign, and renewed international cooperation through 57 global agreements. At the policy level, SDGs are now integrated into Libya’s Vision 2040 and supported by ministerial coordination mechanisms. However, persistent conflict, economic volatility driven by oil dependence, institutional fragmentation, data deficiencies, and damaged infrastructure continue to constrain progress. Overall, Libya demonstrates clear intent and policy alignment toward sustainable development, but consolidating peace, strengthening governance, rebuilding infrastructure, and diversifying the economy remain essential to transform its strategic commitments into tangible, long-term SDG outcomes.

Voluntary National Reports
Country Focal Point

Prof Dr S. P. Bindra
Principal Resource Person

Location

Tripoli, Libya

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Region
  • Libya
  • Africa
No Poverty
Score:2
Justification Libya has revived its poverty fund (Law 7/2022) supporting about 230,000 families (USD 8.1B) and expanded subsidies and social services to mitigate poverty. Despite these efforts, conflict and economic challenges hinder consistent progress for the country. Poverty reduction is integrated into national planning with emphasis on social protection, but political instability and limited resources constrain effective implementation.
Challenges ·       High dependence on subsidies for basic goods/services (over one-third of state budget).

·       Persistent poverty among vulnerable groups.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Poverty-Alleviation Fund revived in 2022; 230,000 families benefited (USD 8.1B in portfolios).

·       New social protection programmes: cash grants, marriage support, universal free education and healthcare.

Efforts to restructure subsidies to target needy groups.
Unsolved Challenges Need for more efficient targeting of social spending.

·       Disparities among regions, genders, and socio-economic groups limit equitable poverty reduction.

Limited job creation affects income security and increases vulnerability to poverty.
Zero Hunger
Score:2
Justification Libya has enhanced domestic grain production through improved irrigation, better seeds, and the establishment of grain reserve institutions. Food subsidies and distribution programmes support vulnerable groups, but sparse data and periodic declines in output show limited progress. Efforts such as integrating food security into national strategies and the 100 Million Trees Initiative demonstrate commitment to sustainability, though ongoing conflict and economic hardship continue to impede agricultural productivity and food access.
Challenges ·       Vulnerable populations in rural areas.

·       Food security remains sensitive to resource constraints.

·       Droughts and declining rainfall reduce agricultural productivity and threaten food security.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Increased cereal production and improved seed quality.

·       New grain-trading authority and strategic food stock being established.

Forest and biomass monitoring informs conservation.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Ensuring consistent access to food for rural and vulnerable populations.

 
Good Health
Score: 2
Justification Libya has demonstrated significant progress in key health outcomes. Maternal mortality remains low at approximately 12 deaths per 100,000 live births, while infant mortality has declined to under 10 deaths per 1,000 live births, supported by 99.8% skilled birth attendance. The country has successfully eliminated malaria and achieved high vaccination coverage through its free public healthcare system. Despite these gains, challenges persist, particularly regarding the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and persistent gaps within the health system. Nonetheless, Libya continues to strengthen social protection measures, including social security programmes and other safety net initiatives, to enhance overall population well-being and resilience.
Challenges ·       Rising non-communicable diseases, mental health, and injury prevention needs.

·       Health infrastructure limitations.

·       Conflict-related destruction of health facilities undermines healthcare delivery and access.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Maternal mortality reduced to 12 per 100,000; skilled birth attendance ~99.8%.

·       Infant mortality 9.8 per 1,000; under-five mortality down to 13.3%.

·       Malaria eliminated; high immunisation coverage under free public healthcare.
Unsolved Challenges Need to strengthen mental health services, injury prevention, and healthcare infrastructure.
Quality Education
Score:2
Justification Libya has achieved near-universal access to basic education, with a 2023 primary enrollment rate of 99.66% and no gender disparity. Expanding schools and literacy programmes have substantially reduced illiteracy, supported by a free education system aligned with labour market needs. While challenges persist in improving the quality of higher education and strengthening vocational training, the country remains broadly progressing toward its basic education goals. Furthermore, ongoing initiatives to promote scientific research, innovation, and capacity-building reflect continued commitment to enhancing the quality and relevance of education across all levels.
Challenges ·       Resource limitations and instability affecting schools.

·       Need to further improve higher education quality and vocational training.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Near-universal primary enrollment (99.66%), gender parity achieved.

·       Literacy programmes and 52 new literacy centres.

·       Free education guaranteed; reforms align curricula with labour market.

Expansion of early childhood, technical, and tertiary education programmes.
Unsolved Challenges Ensuring sustainability and quality of higher education and vocational programmes.

Damaged schools and instability slow the recovery and expansion of quality education services.
Gender Equality
Score:2
Justification Libya’s legal framework upholds gender equality in rights, pay, and leadership opportunities, and women’s increasing presence in decision-making roles demonstrates tangible progress toward equity. However, persistent social norms, limited enforcement of existing laws, and underrepresentation in certain sectors continue to hinder full gender parity. Protection against gender-based violence remains weak, reflecting broader institutional and cultural challenges. While legal and policy commitments to gender equality are evident, the ongoing conflict and entrenched societal attitudes constrain women’s full participation in social, economic, and political life. Libya needs progress, depending on sustained policy enforcement and deeper cultural transformation.
Challenges Cultural and social barriers.

Weak enforcement of anti-discrimination laws.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Legal framework ensures gender equality in rights, pay, and leadership.

·       Women amazingly hold leadership roles; gender-focused agencies and awareness programmes.

Programmes for women’s economic and political empowerment.
Unsolved Challenges Full societal and cultural integration of gender equality principles remains pending.

 
Water & Sanitation
Score:2
Justification Libya demonstrates strong progress in water and sanitation, with approximately 85% of the population accessing safe drinking water and 99% benefiting from safely managed sanitation. The government has taken steps to safeguard water resources, including signing treaties to protect transboundary aquifers, while a nationwide sewer expansion is underway, with 6.7% of the planned network already completed. Strategic plans and ongoing water management projects further support this foundation. Despite these achievements, operational and infrastructural challenges remain, and full sewer coverage is still a work in progress.
Challenges ·       Only 44% of wastewater connected to sewer networks.

·       Incomplete sewer coverage and inconsistent service quality.

·       Droughts and limited water resources impact clean water availability and sustainability.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       85% access to treated drinking water; 99% safely-managed sanitation.

·       Agreements on transboundary aquifer protection.

·       9,224 meters of new sewer pipes installed; 6.7% of planned sewage network completed.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Completing sewer network and ensuring consistent service delivery.

 
Clean Energy
Score: 3
Justification Libya has achieved near-universal electricity access, with 99.8% of the population connected, and over 60% of power generation coming from cleaner natural gas. The country has put in place ambitious efficiency and renewable energy strategies, including LED lighting initiatives and a national renewables plan extending to 2035. However, actual renewable generation remains minimal, meaning that while access and policy frameworks are in place, challenges to progress on the green energy transition still exist. The development of strategic national energy plans and renewable energy strategies demonstrates clear momentum, but widespread implementation is still limited, highlighting the gap between planning and practical outcomes.
Challenges ·       Minimal actual renewable energy generation. Need for broader implementation of renewable strategies.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Near-universal electricity access (99.8%).

·       Over 60% of power plants run on cleaner natural gas.

·       Efficiency measures (LEDs, insulation) and national renewables plan through 2035.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Scaling up renewable generation to meet green energy targets.

·       Fiscal pressures from fuel subsidies reduce incentives for renewable energy investment and efficiency reforms.
Decent Work
Score:2
Justification Libya’s economy remains highly dependent on oil, which drives nearly the entire national budget, making economic performance vulnerable to price fluctuations and highlighting the need for greater diversification. The government has made notable efforts to strengthen the economy, including substantial investment in the oil sector (USD 7 billion in 2023) and initiatives to support diversification, such as increased SME financing with bank lending up 10.9%. Unemployment has shown a slight decline, reflecting some positive impact. However, persistent GDP volatility and high joblessness indicate that overall economic progress is limited, underscoring the need for broader structural reforms beyond the oil sector.
Challenges ·       Economic volatility due to oil price dependence.

·       High unemployment, especially youth; labour market strain from overstaffed public sector.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Government invested USD 7B in oil sector (2023).

·       SME financing and private sector bank lending up 10.9%.

·       Slight reduction in unemployment, some job creation in construction, services, public works.
Unsolved Challenges Economic diversification still limited; GDP volatility persists.

 
Industry & Infrastructure
Score:3
Justification Libya has resumed key infrastructure projects, completing thousands of kilometers of roads and new airport systems, while private financing to industry has grown, with bank loans increasing by 10.9%. The national strategy aims for industrial growth by 2030 through investments in R&D, entrepreneurship, and technological development. Efforts also focus on fostering innovation, scientific research, technology transfer, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite these initiatives, many projects remain delayed, and industrial productivity is still low, indicating that progress, but incomplete and sustained implementation is needed to achieve the country’s industrial and economic objectives.
Challenges ·       War-damaged infrastructure.

·       Red tape and bureaucratic delays hinder industrial growth. Poor coordination affects infrastructure project management and innovation policies.

 
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Thousands of km of roads completed; airports and ports maintained.

·       Bank lending to productive enterprises up 10.9%.

National industrial strategy supports R&D, entrepreneurship, and SME development.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Industrial productivity remains low; full project implementation pending.

 
Inequality
Score:2
Justification Equity is a central focus of Libya’s policy framework, exemplified by the planned National Social Justice strategy, direct transfers, and expanded social services for marginalised groups, demonstrating clear intent to promote inclusivity. At the same time, comprehensive data on income and social inequality remain limited, and high youth unemployment and regional disparities continue to challenge progress. Efforts to address these gaps include decentralisation, strengthening local governance, and promoting balanced regional development to reduce disparities across the country. While several positive measures are underway, Libya’s progress remains limited, underscoring the need for sustained implementation and better data to inform policy.
Challenges ·       Limited disaggregated data on income and social inequality.

·       Regional disparities persist; youth unemployment high.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Policies embedding social justice and targeting vulnerable groups (cash transfers, scholarships).

Expanded social protection coverage to displaced persons.
Unsolved Challenges Need for more targeted policies to address income and regional disparities.
Sustainable Cities
Score:2
Justification Libya has made notable strides in local development, including extensive urban planning covering 94,000 hectares and high homeownership at 91.8%, along with innovative support for persons with disabilities, such as free transit and 3,000 accessible vehicles. However, urban services remain limited, with only 30% of major-city residents connected to sewer networks, and war-related damage continues to affect infrastructure. Reconstruction efforts are only beginning, limiting overall progress toward SDGs. The government has outlined various urban development and infrastructure plans, including waste management, urban planning, and decentralisation initiatives, demonstrating a framework for sustainable urban development, but full implementation is still needed to achieve meaningful outcomes.
Challenges ·       Past conflict and unplanned urban growth.

·       Incomplete sanitation infrastructure; unplanned settlements persist.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       High homeownership (91.8%), smaller household size (5.2).

·       Urban planning frameworks (Second National Spatial Plan).

·       Accessibility measures for persons with disabilities (3,000 adapted vehicles).

·       99% safely-managed sanitation coverage overall.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Major sewer networks incomplete (30% coverage in major cities).

·       Rapid urbanisation still stresses infrastructure.
Responsible Consumption
Score:2
Justification Libya has begun implementing policy actions for sustainable consumption and production, including initiatives to reduce food waste from 76 kg per person per year, pilot recycling programmes, and a sustainable tourism plan aiming to attract 4.6 million tourists by 2025 and generate employment. Plans to reform fuel subsidies to curb overconsumption further support these efforts. While awareness campaigns are being launched, robust waste management systems and production regulations remain limited, and overall Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) implementation is still in its early stages. These measures demonstrate promising steps, but progress remains partial.
Challenges ·       SCP implementation in early stages.

·       Limited waste management and production regulation.

·       Subsidised fuel and energy encourage overconsumption and delay green transition efforts.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Campaigns to reduce food waste (76 kg/person/year).

·       Pilot recycling programmes; sustainable tourism plan targeting 4.6 M tourists by 2025.

·       Planned fuel subsidy reforms.
Unsolved Challenges Need to establish full circular economy frameworks and robust SCP enforcement.
Climate Action
Score:2
Justification Libya has taken significant steps toward climate action, adopting a national climate strategy for 2024–2035 and establishing early-warning systems. The “100 Million Trees by 2030” campaign is a flagship initiative, with plantings to date expected to sequester approximately 3 million tons of CO₂, and climate education has been integrated into school curricula. The country has set a targeted CO₂ emissions reduction of 1.35 million tons by 2035, reflecting clear planning and strategic commitment. Efforts also include developing national strategies and action plans for climate change adaptation and mitigation. While implementation remains limited, these substantial initiatives position Libya on a positive trajectory for SDGs, demonstrating intent and foundational progress toward meeting global climate targets.
Challenges ·       Measurable impact on emissions not yet realised.

·       Implementation of adaptation and mitigation plans still limited.

·       Climate impacts threaten ecosystems and rural livelihoods.
Progress/Solution ·       National climate strategy 2024–2035 adopted; early-warning systems in place.

·       “100 Million Trees by 2030” campaign underway (3M tons CO₂ sequestered).

·       Climate education integrated into schools.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Scaling and operationalizing climate strategies to achieve tangible results.

 
Life Below Water
Score : 2
Justification Libya has initiated measures to protect its marine environment, including a national marine pollution plan launched in 2022 to address oil spills and plastic waste, and the establishment of fishing-watch committees in 2024 to combat illegal fishing. Given the fisheries sector’s importance valued at US$230 million and supplying 43% of local fish these conservation efforts are critical. While institutional frameworks are in place, enforcement and broader marine conservation measures are still developing, indicating that progress is modest but demonstrates a foundation for further action.
Challenges ·       Enforcement of marine conservation and pollution control still developing.

·       Sustainable fisheries management requires strengthening.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       National marine pollution plan (2022) launched.

·       Fishing-watch committees established (2024).

New marine protected areas declared; 43% of domestic fish supply from fisheries (US$230M).
Unsolved Challenges Monitoring and protection of marine ecosystems need major improvement.
Life on Land
Score: 3
Justification Libya has demonstrated strong commitment to environmental sustainability through its large-scale tree-planting initiatives, with tens of thousands of saplings, including olives and oaks, planted across forest areas and fire-damaged land in 2023–2024. Wildlife protection efforts have also increased, exemplified by the rescue of 250 endangered tortoises. These actions, alongside the ongoing “100 Million Trees” campaign, highlight the country’s dedication to afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems. Achieving SDG 15 will require scaling up, but Libya is progressing through targeted conservation measures.
Challenges ·       Ecosystems remain fragile due to past conflict, desertification, and limited budgets.

·       Desertification and soil degradation endanger ecosystems and biodiversity.
Progress/

Solution

 ·       Afforestation: 50,000 seedlings planted in 2023/24; 100M trees goal ongoing.

·       Wildlife protection: 250 endangered tortoises rescued; Mediterranean bird conservation projects launched.
Unsolved Challenges Scaling up conservation and ecosystem management to fully protect biodiversity.
Peace & Justice
Score:2
Justification Libya has made notable strides in governance and rule-of-law by enacting key legislation, including child protection laws and ratifying international conventions, strengthening oversight through anti-corruption courts and audit reforms, and enhancing transparency via digital government portals and municipal decentralisation. Despite these institutional reforms, years of conflict have weakened governance, security remains fragile, and corruption persists. While these measures demonstrate tangible progress in strengthening legal frameworks and decentralisation, significant challenges continue to hinder overall advancement in the country.
Challenges ·       Ongoing conflict undermines governance and rule-of-law.

·       Weak justice system, uneven local governance, and human rights challenges persist.

·       Poor data and monitoring systems reduce transparency and policy effectiveness.
Progress/Solution ·       Strengthened legal protections: Child Protection Law, Family and Child Protection Office.

·       Oversight institutions reinforced: Anti-Corruption Commission, Audit Office, special courts.

·       Transparency improved: budget and fiscal data published; administrative reforms and digitisation underway.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Stability and public trust in institutions remain fragile; institutional consolidation ongoing.

 

 

Partnerships
Score: 2
Justification Libya actively engages in international cooperation, having signed over 57 global agreements in areas such as science, climate, and education, and collaborating with UN agencies like UNICEF, UNDP, and WHO on initiatives including digital learning, health, and biodiversity. The country is also mainstreaming digital governance and open data, while domestically aligning the SDG framework across all sectors. These strong partnerships and integration with international frameworks demonstrate Libya’s capacity to mobilise resources and expertise to advance SDG implementation.
Challenges ·       National capacity gaps remain; continued donor and technical support needed.

·       Limit ability to leverage partnerships and mobilise funding for SDG implementation.
Progress/Solution ·       Signed 57+ international agreements on science, climate, education.

·       Collaboration with UN agencies (UNICEF, UNDP, WHO) on digital learning, health, climate, biodiversity.

·       Modernizing governance and finance systems; encouraging public-private partnerships.

Participation in regional SDG monitoring initiatives.
Unsolved Challenges ·       Sustained implementation of partnerships to fully mitigate capacity gaps.

 
SDGs World Progress: Moderately Off-Track
  • SDG7
  • SDG9
  • SDG15
SDGs World Progress: Off-Track
  • SDG1
  • SDG2
  • SDG3
  • SDG4
  • SDG5
  • SDG6
  • SDG8
  • SDG10
  • SDG11
  • SDG12
  • SDG13
  • SDG14
  • SDG16
  • SDG17
Country Challenges
  1. Political Instability and Security: Libya’s fragile political environment remains a primary obstacle. The VNR emphasises that achieving the SDGs depends on the restoration of lasting peace and the successful conduct of free and fair elections. Prolonged conflict has disrupted reforms and diverted vital resources away from development priorities.
  2. International and Regional Cooperation Constraints: Although Libya maintains several partnerships, geopolitical tensions and limited resources continue to hinder effective multilateral cooperation an essential component for advancing the SDGs.
  3. Destroyed Infrastructure: Years of conflict have severely damaged essential infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, and public utilities. The VNR notes that the deterioration of such services undermines progress in health, education, and overall living standards.
  4. Economic Volatility and Dependence on Oil: Libya’s economy remains heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues. The VNR warns that this dependence leaves the national budget highly exposed to fluctuations in global oil prices, while the absence of strong alternative export sectors slows economic diversification and sustainable growth.
  5. Fiscal and Financial Constraints: Public finances are under strain due to widespread subsidies and weak fiscal management. The VNR highlights delays in implementing tax and subsidy reforms, ineffective monetary policies, and the persistence of a large informal economy. Ensuring currency stability and directing subsidies towards those most in need remain key challenges for sustainable development financing.
  6. Data and Institutional Gaps: The absence of up-to-date data and fragmented institutional structures pose significant barriers. With no national census conducted since 2006 and limited statistical capacity, the VNR identifies “lack of data and information” as a major challenge to evidence-based policymaking and effective SDG monitoring. Institutional fragmentation stemming from overlapping authorities and divided governance further complicates coordination.
  7. Environmental Stress: Libya faces mounting environmental pressures, including desertification, drought, and water scarcity. The VNR highlights these as critical impediments to sustainable development, noting that declining rainfall, encroaching sand, and soil degradation threaten agriculture and livelihoods. Effective adaptation and mitigation strategies are urgently required.
  8. Governance and Transparency Issues: Weak governance continues to undermine public sector performance. The VNR points to persistent “lack of transparency and disclosure” and ongoing corruption as major impediments to accountability and trust. Incomplete public financial management systems further erode citizen confidence in state institutions.
  9. Social Inequalities and Vulnerable Populations: Persistent disparities based on region, gender, and socio-economic status constrain inclusive growth and equitable progress.
  10. Migration and Social Strain: High levels of irregular migration place considerable pressure on social services and local communities. The VNR stresses that addressing these challenges requires improved stability and closer coordination with neighbouring countries.
  11. Limited Access to Education and Healthcare: Ongoing instability and resource shortages continue to affect the quality and accessibility of essential services, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas, hindering progress in both education and health outcomes.
Country Lessons Learned
  1. Engage all Stakeholders in SDG Implementation: Libya’s broad consultative process through its national SDG forum, thematic working groups, and multi-sector workshops, helped to foster national ownership and ensure diverse perspectives were included. Other countries can draw from this by institutionalising multi-stakeholder SDG platforms and public forums early in the implementation process.
  2. Adopt a Structured Methodology: Libya’s systematic approach to preparing its VNR, which defined clear stages, timelines, and methodologies, demonstrates the importance of a structured process. Establishing a detailed framework enhances coherence, accountability, and completeness in SDG reporting.
  3. Integrate SDGs into National Planning: By embedding the SDGs within its long-term Vision 2040 and approving only projects aligned with SDG priorities, Libya ensured policy and budgetary coherence. This approach illustrates how integrating the SDGs into national planning frameworks can strengthen sustainable development outcomes.
  4. Prioritise Long-term Strategic Planning: Libya’s multi-year national strategies for key sectors such as water, energy, and tourism highlight the necessity of sustained strategic planning and consistent monitoring to achieve developmental goals.
  5. Leverage Existing Social Protection Mechanisms: Revitalising an established development fund to support low-income families allowed Libya to scale up social protection rapidly and effectively. This demonstrates that, in times of crisis, existing programmes can often be repurposed or reinforced rather than replaced by new systems.
  6. Promote Engagement and Resilience: Libya’s experience underscores the value of national determination and civic engagement. Despite conflict and instability, the collective effort of citizens and institutions has sustained progress, offering an important lesson in resilience and social cohesion.
  7. Commit to ‘Leaving No One Behind’: Libya’s targeted initiatives for women, youth, persons with disabilities, and rural communities exemplify an inclusive approach to SDG implementation. Measures such as free public transport and vehicle grants for persons with disabilities highlight the importance of embedding equity and accessibility within policy design.
  8. Invest in Data and Statistical Capacity: The lack of recent census data was identified as a major gap in Libya’s VNR. The government’s decision to launch a new census demonstrates the critical need to invest in data infrastructure. Other countries should similarly strengthen their national statistical systems to enable evidence-based decision-making and accurate SDG monitoring.
  9. Innovate Under Constraint: Libya’s progress in advancing climate action and green initiatives such as the 100 Million Trees campaign and integration of climate education into school curricula shows that innovation is possible even amid instability. This experience suggests that countries facing similar constraints can pursue ambitious sustainability projects by leveraging public–private partnerships and embedding environmental initiatives within reconstruction efforts.
  1. The establishment of the National SDG Coordination Committee at ministerial level (Decision No. 281/2023) reinforced institutional coordination and accountability for Agenda 2030.
  2. Libya signed 57 international agreements to enhance cooperation in science, technology, education, and climate action, reflecting strong multilateral engagement.
  3. The first VNR (2020) provided a baseline for progress, and the second VNR (July 2024) demonstrated ongoing national commitment and alignment with the UN’s Agenda 2030.
  4. The government allocated USD 7 billion in 2023 and plans another USD 7 billion in 2024 to increase oil production from 2 to 2 million barrels/day by 2025–26, boosting fiscal capacity.
  5. 8% of the population is now connected to the national electricity grid, showing near-universal energy access.
  6. About 85% of citizens have safely managed drinking water and 99% have access to safe sanitation facilities, supported by new water and sewage projects.
  7. The Economic and Social Development Fund supported approximately 230,000 families, distributing USD 8.1 billion through subsidised investment portfolios.
  8. Law 27/2013 guarantees monthly child and family grants, and Law 5/2019 established a Marriage Support Fund that provided LYD 2 billion in grants during 2021–22.
  9. In 2023, the government introduced a LYD 100 monthly scholarship for all higher-education students.
  10. Skilled birth attendance:8%, Maternal mortality: 12 per 100,000 (2022) and Infant mortality: 9.8 per 1,000 (2022). These figures reflect strong public-health infrastructure and universal healthcare provision.
  11. Primary school gross enrolment reached 66% (2023) with near gender parity; literacy and adult-education programmes expanded to 52 centres nationwide.
  12. The “100 Million Trees by 2030” campaign aims to sequester around 3 million tonnes of CO₂, signalling climate leadership.
  13. The national tourism plan targets 6 million visitors by 2025, integrating sustainability into economic diversification efforts.
  14. Climate awareness is now incorporated into school curricula, and new cooperation projects were launched with UNICEF and UNESCO.
  15. A population census was launched in 2023 the first since 2006 to address data gaps and improve policy planning and SDG tracking.

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