Piloting the US Global Fragility Act to Support Conflict Resolution and Recovery in Libya

The U.S. Global Fragility Act, implemented as the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (SPCPS), presents a new opportunity to rethink preventative and stabilization efforts in conflict areas. As one of eight countries, Libya offers a unique opportunity to build upon the successes of previous peacebuilding initiatives and pave a path toward state stability. The SPCPS’ ten-year horizon enables a whole-of-government approach to conflict resolution by leveraging strategies for security sector reform (SSR), good governance, and economic and human development, among other priorities.  

This Capstone project addressed two questions. First, what were the key lessons learned in SSR and disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) from states that experienced fractured institutions and security sectors? This was answered by analyzing the theoretical foundations of the security-development nexus and examining three case studies to identify lessons learned: Colombia, Iraq, and Lebanon. Second, the study considered which lessons learned were most viable within the Libyan context to progress toward the GFA’s objectives. To address this, historical grievances and regional dynamics were outlined before presenting ten recommendations. Historic grievances in Libya stem from an unequal distribution of resources. Today, tensions are exacerbated by dual governments vying for political and resource control, worsening climate conditions, and the proliferation of armed domestic and foreign actors. Libya’s southern region is of particular concern as it has been historically underserved. The project’s ten recommendations addressed political, national reconciliation, security, and economic goals outlined in the SPCPS. The project concluded by offering criteria to consider before implementing the team's recommendations