In the aftermath of the 2011 revolution, Libya has grappled with a decade-long struggle for stability and peace. Central to securing peace and prosperity is the challenge of securing the lifeline that connects the east and west – a 300-kilometer stretch of road between the cities of Misrata and Sirte,  a vital artery connecting people and businesses across the country. Without it, the only alternative is a daunting and dangerous detour through the desert or a costly flight. 

Reopening this strategic route in 2021 was integral to the ceasefire agreement between the joint military committee (JMC) formed between the parties and marked a pivotal moment in the country’s pursuit of peace.

Since October 2021, GOPA PACE*, a GOPA Consulting Group company and formerly known as B &S Europe, collaborated with the JMC, Security Arrangement Committee, Ministry of Interior and other local partners to play a crucial role in ensuring security along this vital link through the EULINK project as well as the stability and permanence of the ceasefire. Funded by the European Union, the project known as the EULINK RAWABET initiative is facilitating joint security and military arrangements between institutional actors from the East and West and stands as a cornerstone in Libya's security sector reform and the pursuit of stability and national unity.

Meeting urgent needs, supporting long-term stability

Focusing on the rehabilitation of crucial security gates, including Abu Grein, Gate 50, and Gate 30, the EULINK RAWABAT project led by GOPA PACE involves not only physical infrastructure improvements but also the provision of operational equipment and comprehensive training sessions for commanding officers as well as officers responsible for operating the gates, and those on patrol.  

“We brought together forces from the security and military institutions operating in both sides of the country and showed they can work in harmony as long as political and conflict sensitivities between their institutions are cleverly addressed in a technical and professional manner that respects local limitations,“ says Vincent Sugier, Libya Country Director, GOPA PACE.  “This initiative shows reunification is possible. “

In just 15 months, the project demonstrated concrete results: 

• 3 ‘Gates’ constructed in the ceasefire zone with the cooperation of ‘rival’ parties
• Infrastructure accommodation for 60 people and solar power installed and operating
• Medical assistance is now available between the gates (field clinics + ambulances)
• First aid is now integrated into the training curricula of new police recruits
• Working conditions for police officers at Security Gates have significantly improved, with upgraded accommodations featuring kitchens and offices and access to  electricity, clean water, and waste management
• Coastal Road Security officers are trained in risk management and analysis, community-led policing, emergency trauma care, checkpoint management techniques, etc.
• Police training centers in Tripoli and Khoms are now independently delivering critical first aid, leadership, and management training for personnel on the coastal road
• Nighaza Training Centre has been upgraded with new, fully functional training classrooms and Rappelling Tower.

The project’s success has led to the Security Arrangement Committee requesting the rehabilitation of additional Security Gates, as well as further development of existing Gates, a testament to its impact.

Building a network of trust

A strategic partnership with ProLibya, a local private management consultancy specializing in process management and technical assistance services to international development projects in Libya, has been instrumental to the project's success. “ From the start, we built a strategic partnership with GOPA PACE, where Prolibya became the ‘Local Lead’, which meant having a leading role in decision making, planning, strategy, proposal preparation, identifying and vetting stakeholders, and supporting operations on the ground, “ says Hamam Elfassi, managing director of Pro-Libya. “Our relationship is based on trust. We know that we are going to be listened to by GOPA PACE, and our responsibility is to do things in a professional way.”

Sustaining relationships in a shifting landscape

Understanding the nuances of local dynamics in a country marked by political transitions and constantly changing personnel can be challenging.  Since 2019, GOPA PACE has maintained a continuous presence in Libya, working at all levels, from the political to the local grassroots level, to ensure stakeholders on all ‘sides’ are engaged and focusing on high-impact results for local beneficiaries and international donors. Over 15 full-time GOPA PACE staff live and work in Libya and have developed long-term relationships with the Libyan managers and supervisors responsible for providing technical assistance and implementing the project. The local coordinators invest time in maintaining relationships and provide ongoing support even after the trainings end. “We are constantly re-engaging with them to ensure whatever we deliver is still being used and used correctly,” says Sugier. “Before we start implementing any activity,  we are already thinking about the middle and the long term.”

Alignment with local needs and contextualized solutions

The success of EULINK RAWABET lies in its commitment to locally-led development.  “Our partnership with our Libyan counterparts is vital,” says Sabine Boeltken, Director of Peace and Security, GOPA PACE. “ We don’t come with a solution. We start by asking the Libyans what they need, start the discussion and go from there together. “  

*In November 2023, B & S Europe became known as GOPA PACE.