particularly in relation to escalating geopolitical tensions in several parts of the region. Previously, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a global ceasefire in order to enable countries to focus on fighting the prevailing health crisis. Although his request was welcomed by certain governments and armed groups, however, clashes still continue in countries such as Ethiopia, where the Tigray conflict has led to thousands of deaths and displacements among civilians. Meanwhile, Mozambique is experiencing a refugee crisis as a result of an Islamist insurgency in the North Cabo Delgado province.
However, if there are any positives, the situation in Libya, as the country continues to observe a ceasefire agreed early last year, would be one. In March 2020, a new interim Government of National Unity (GNU) was established following a smooth transfer of power, and in February this year, businessman-turned-politician Abdul Hamid Dbeibah was designated as the country’s new interim prime minister. Moreover, with recent plans for a general election scheduled to be held in December, hope for peace and stability in the war-torn nation and the wider region has been renewed.
