Borderline Chaos? Securing Libya’s Periphery - Carnegie Foundation

The Libyan State was left with a neglected Southern region whose population depends on the cross border trade and a fragmented and disconnected and weak  security system which results in Libya's border insecurity.

Arab,Berber and sub -saharan communities have come to depend  on cross border networks with next of kin inneighbouring countries and this has facilitated illegal trafficking, the article observes.For many armed groups communalties are more important than the central government. uncoordinated government departments and militia brigades contribute to a chaotic situation.These elements often compete against each other rather than cooperating.

The Carnegie Foundation says that ensuring better cooperation and coordination between state institutions is a crucial first step.Central and regional cooperation will mean authortities have a better chance of establishing some control. Militia brigades have come to depend on the border areas andthey need to be weaned away from this.Reform of the security apparatus is essential to gain the trust ofthe brigades,the article affirms.

The government must take bold steps to integrate marginalised communities into society which will mean a more effective reconciliation progress. Local development and resolving social grievances wil help curtail cross border trafficking, the article suggests, adding that this will require more robust institutionsespecially in the South and East of the country,the Carnegie Foundation concludes.