Libyan Judicial Sector Faces Full Shutdown Amid Salary Dispute
The Libyan judicial sector is on the brink of a complete shutdown as the General Union of Justice and Judicial Bodies Employees escalates its protest over unpaid salary increases. After exhausting all avenues of dialogue with the relevant authorities, the union has announced a full suspension of work in all courts and prosecution offices starting July 30, 2026. This decision follows a series of partial work stoppages and protest sit-ins initiated to demand the implementation of Law No. 2 of 2025, which stipulates salary increases for justice sector employees.
The union's president, Al-Taher Kashir, emphasized that the move to a full work suspension comes after repeated attempts to engage with authorities failed to yield results. The union had previously organized partial work stoppages and protest sit-ins to press for the implementation of the salary increases mandated by Law No. 2 of 2025. Despite these efforts, the authorities have not responded to the demands, prompting the union to escalate its actions.
The impending full suspension of work is expected to have significant implications for the Libyan judicial system. Courts and prosecution offices play a crucial role in maintaining law and order, and their closure could lead to delays in legal proceedings, a backlog of cases, and a potential increase in unresolved disputes. This situation underscores the broader challenges facing Libya's public sector, including issues related to employee compensation, resource allocation, and the effective implementation of legislative measures.
The union has indicated that the full suspension will remain in effect until the salary increases are implemented. This development highlights the ongoing struggles within Libya's public sector and raises concerns about the stability and functionality of the country's judicial system. The situation calls for urgent attention from the Libyan government to address the grievances of justice sector employees and to ensure the continued operation of the judicial system.
