Good Governance and State-Building in Libya A Theoretical Framework for Analyzing Institutional Reform

Abstract

The study aimed to establish the concept of good governance, clarify its relationship with institutional reform, and analyze the main challenges facing the development of public institutions in Libya. It also sought to propose an approach that could contribute to supporting the process of state-building. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical methodology, drawing on the New Institutionalism approach and public policy analysis to explain the relationship between institutional quality, the principles of good governance, and the capacity of institutions to formulate and implement public policies.

The study concluded that good governance represents an appropriate approach to institutional reform and state-building in Libya; however, its effectiveness depends on translating its principles from a theoretical framework into actual institutional practices. The analysis also showed that institutional fragmentation, multiple centers of decision-making, overlapping jurisdictions, weak coordination, and disparities in administrative capacities constitute major challenges to institutional development. The study further emphasized that the rule of law, transparency, accountability, participation, human resource development, digital transformation, and the unification of institutions, rules, and procedures are interconnected elements for supporting institutional reform and strengthening stability and public trust.

The study concluded that there is a need to adopt an integrated national strategy for institutional reform based on unifying state institutions, clearly defining jurisdictions and responsibilities, strengthening the independence of oversight bodies, combating corruption, developing public administration and human resources, expanding community participation, improving the quality of public services, and linking institutional reform to national development. Such an approach would contribute to building Libyan institutions that are more efficient, effective, stable, and responsive to the needs of society.