3. Conference participants acknowledged the significant achievements of the Libyan people and the Libyan authorities following the Declaration of Liberation in October 2011. The General National Congress elections on 7 July 2012 and the swearing-in on 14 November of the country’s first democratically constituted government marked major milestones in Libya’s democratic transition. While recognizing the heavy legacy bequeathed to the Libyan people following decades of autocratic rule – weak state institutions, rampant corruption, limited economic opportunities, and a debilitated security sector –Conference participants expressed the hope that recent progress in the political landscape could provide an opportunity for the Libyan Government to press ahead with the task of State and institution-building that would enable Libya to reclaim its rightful place in the community of nations.
4. Conference participants agreed, however, on the need for immediate, visible and tangible action, by Libya and its partners, on the priority challenges in the areas of national security and justice, which have the potential to undermine Libya’s recent steps toward a successful democratic transition and prosperous future. These challenges are the security situation in the country, security and management of Libya’s borders; the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of former revolutionary fighters and issues related to arms; and ammunition management. The Libyan Government highlighted its recent efforts to address these challenges, and stressed its intention to take appropriate additional steps in coordination with the international partners.
5. Much now rests on Libya’s leadership to carry the political process forward, to ensure a successful transition beyond the revolutionary phase, and to take concrete steps in the process of rebuilding their country. In this regard, Conference participants welcomed the determination of the Libyan Government to move quickly in addressing the precarious national security situation, including the aforementioned priority challenges and again reiterated their solidarity and full support. Conference participants expressed their firm belief that progress on these issues will put Libya on the path to recovery and to building a modern, democratic and accountable state, based on rule of the law and respect for human rights.