Electoral Laws and the Reproduction of Political Division (Libya as a Case Study)

Abstract

This study analyzes the role of electoral laws in deepening political division in Libya since 2011. It argues that the electoral framework was shaped by competition among power centers rather than broad national consensus, turning elections from a means of legitimacy-building into a field of political struggle. Using an analytical–interpretive approach, the study shows that fragmented legal authorities and the absence of political agreement weakened confidence in the electoral process and disrupted electoral timelines. It also finds that elections have been managed mainly through crisis containment rather than genuine democratic transition. The study concludes that overcoming division requires consensual electoral reform linked to institutional reunification and legitimacy-building, and recommends a comprehensive reform approach that separates electoral legislation from conflict dynamics.