Promoting the Blue Economy in Libya: A Systematic Literature Review and the Development of a Strategic Vision for Sustainable Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65405/pxqgmj70Keywords:
Blue Economy; Sustainable Development; Marine Governance; Innovation; Sustainable Investment; LibyaAbstract
This study aimed to analyze recent scientific literature on the Blue Economy and Sustainable Development during the period 2020–2025, identify major research trends, opportunities, and challenges, and develop a strategic vision for promoting the Blue Economy in Libya. The study adopted a systematic literature review approach based on peer-reviewed scientific publications and international academic databases. The findings revealed that the Blue Economy represents an integrated development framework capable of supporting sustainable development goals through the sustainable management of marine and coastal resources. The results further indicated that the success of the Blue Economy depends primarily on effective marine governance, innovation, sustainable investment, institutional partnerships, and the availability of scientific knowledge and marine data. The study also found that Libya possesses significant marine and coastal assets, including its strategic Mediterranean location, extensive coastline, fisheries resources, tourism potential, and maritime infrastructure. However, these opportunities remain underutilized due to institutional, legislative, financial, and knowledge-related constraints. The study concludes that Libya needs a comprehensive national Blue Economy strategy based on good governance, innovation, sustainable investment, environmental justice, and stakeholder participation to support economic diversification and achieve sustainable development.
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