Title: Libya’s Criminal Economy: The Sentry’s Alarm on Kleptocracy and Transnational Crime

Washington D.C., November 7, 2023

The Sentry, an investigative and policy organization, issued a significant report on Libya’s illicit economy, uncovering the alarming growth of criminal activities linked to the country’s leadership. The report, ** Libya’s Kleptocratic Boom,** underscores the urgent necessity for international action to prevent Libya from becoming a new hub of transnational crime.

Key Findings

• Corruption and organized crime under Libyan leadership pose a serious threat to the stability of essential institutions.
• The criminal empire involves illicit operations in human trafficking, fuel smuggling, narcotics, money laundering, currency manipulation, financial fraud, and the theft of billions of dollars in public assets.

The Impact of Corruption on Libya

• John Prendergast, Co-Founder of The Sentry: “Libya’s corruption has long been considered an internal issue with little international security implications. However, the country’s rapid expansion in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, fuel smuggling, and human being trafficking, as well as the outright theft of billions of dollars in public assets, is making Libya a significant transnational crime hub with severe regional and international security implications. Failure to act decisively may result in the implosion of the economy and institutions and the onset of full-blown armed conflict.”
• Oliver Windridge, Director of Illicit Finance Policy at The Sentry: “Post-2011, Libya has been known for its armed groups, which have been tolerated by some international actors due to their provision of local services and a degree of security. Sadly, this approach of appeasement has perpetuated the entrenched influence of militias over state institutions and enabled the plunder of public resources. Some Libyan leaders are now adopting similar tactics. Western powers engaging with Libyan politicians and technocrats should recognize that some of these leaders are at the center of a vast and lucrative criminal network. The US and other like-minded countries must employ robust policy measures, such as targeted network sanctions, to confront this escalating threat.”

Damaging Effects on Libya’s Infrastructure

• Libya’s corruption severely impacts crucial infrastructure, such as the National Oil Corporation, which generates almost all of the nation’s income.

Recommendations

The Sentry’s report provides actionable recommendations for governments, financial institutions, and international organizations to curb the expansion of Libya’s illicit economy:

• Identify and expose corruption: Hold accountable those responsible for corruption and prevent the misuse of public funds for private enrichment.
• Ensure transparency and accountability: Tackle the culture of impunity that shields human rights abusers from accountability and promote transparency across all sectors.

Read the full report by The Sentry, “Libya’s Kleptocratic Boom”: https://thesentry.org/reports/libyas-kleptocratic-boom

For media inquiries or interview requests, contact: Greg Hittelman, Director of Communications at email@gmail.com

About The Sentry

The Sentry is an investigative and policy organization committed to exposing the networks that finance conflict and repression worldwide. By following the money, The Sentry aims to disrupt violent conflicts, repressive regimes, and human rights abuses that persist when those responsible face minimal consequences. Learn more: www.TheSentry.org