Libya’s Economic Future: A Conversation with Jonathan Winer

Описание: The Stimson Center’s North Africa, Mediterranean & Sahel Program invites you to a public discussion on the political and economic factors shaping Libya’s recovery more than a decade after the 2011 uprising.

Drawing on his recent analysis, “Making Libya Investable Again,” Jonathan Winer will discuss why Libya—despite possessing significant hydrocarbon resources and renewed international interest—remains a difficult environment for sustained investment. Persistent political fragmentation, institutional weaknesses, and fiscal instability continue to complicate efforts to translate Libya’s energy potential into durable economic growth.

At the same time, Libya has recently witnessed renewed momentum in its energy sector. The National Oil Corporation has launched its first exploration bid round in more than 17 years, while several international energy companies—including major U.S. firms—have signed new agreements with the NOC to study and develop hydrocarbon assets. These developments highlight both the ongoing global interest in Libya’s energy resources and the broader question of whether the country’s political and economic conditions can sustain foreign investment.

The discussion will examine how Libya’s divided political landscape, competing centers of authority, and fragile security equilibrium affect economic governance and investor confidence. It will also address broader structural challenges across Libya’s political economy, including the weaponization of energy infrastructure in domestic political disputes, currency pressures, corruption risks, and the deterioration of critical infrastructure.

Moderated by Hafed Al-Ghwell, Director of the North Africa, Mediterranean & Sahel Program at the Stimson Center, the conversation will explore Libya’s economic outlook within wider regional dynamics, including European energy security, Mediterranean migration pressures, and shifting geopolitical competition across North Africa.

To read Jonathan Winer’s analysis, “Making Libya Investable Again,” visit the Middle East Institute website.