Resolving current security challenges and preventing future outbreaks of violence requires cooperation between all national security forces and a reformed national security architecture. Creating a national security council that coordinates all security agencies and provides support to municipal forces is central to this effort.

The purpose of security forces is to defend the nation, not to define it. To safeguard Libya’s nascent democracy, civilian oversight over all security agencies must be guaranteed through laws, policies, and procedures. Civilian oversight will ensure Libya’s security agencies transition from being bureaucratically managed institutions to citizen-focused organizations that operate transparently in partnership with civil society and local communities.

Having a professional, non-partisan rapid deployment force can help establish peace in Libya. Such a force can limit reliance on militia groups and act as a deterrent to challenges to government authority. A rapid deployment force will enable quick responses to security threats so that regular military forces can intervene once security threats are reduced.

The creation of a paramilitary police force would allow the Libyan government to rely less on militia groups for law enforcement functions. Paramilitary police would have law enforcement authority, which means they can conduct investigations and make arrests. The training of paramilitary forces in policing methods, rather than combat, makes them better suited for dealing with civilians than soldiers.