Tripoli: The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has called on all Libyan parties to respect and protect freedom of expression, ensuring that journalists and civil society members, both men and women, can exercise their rights without fear of intimidation, harassment, arrest, or reprisals.

According to Libyan News Agency, UNSMIL issued a statement on World Press Freedom Day, emphasizing that providing a free, independent, and safe media environment is essential. The mission highlighted the crucial role journalists and civil society play in monitoring and documenting developments, conveying public concerns, combating disinformation, and holding institutions accountable.

The UN mission warned that silencing these voices deepens public distrust and prolongs instability. It noted that structured dialogue participants have repeatedly stressed that freedom of expression and the safety of journalists are vital for fair elections and rebuilding trust between institutions and citizens, amid significant pressures on civic space in Libya.

Expressing concern over ongoing reports of intimidation, harassment, arbitrary arrests, and reprisals targeting journalists and activists, the mission highlighted the misuse of Libyan legal provisions to restrict legitimate freedom of expression, threatening to criminalize it and undermine the rule of law.

The mission called for swift, impartial investigations into allegations of attacks and for perpetrators to be held accountable, stressing that impunity erodes public trust in state institutions. It urged an immediate end to arbitrary arrests and the misuse of legal frameworks suppressing peaceful expression.

UNSMIL reiterated the importance of protecting press freedom as a fundamental human rights obligation and strategic imperative for effective public participation, credible elections, and sustainable peace. The mission expressed readiness to support Libyan stakeholders in reforms to protect freedom of expression and strengthen a resilient media sector.