Libya Moves Toward National Blockchain Policy With UNESCWA Support

A New Digital Chapter for Libya

Libya is taking a decisive step into the blockchain era. The General Information Authority (GIA) has formally requested technical assistance from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA) to develop the country's first national blockchain policy — a move that could reshape how Libya manages data, digital trust, and public services. The consultancy position, posted on UN Talent with a deadline of June 26, 2026, signals that the project is moving from concept to execution.

What the Blockchain Policy Will Cover

The selected consultant will be tasked with producing a comprehensive policy document of no fewer than 30 pages, including a 2-4 page executive summary. Key deliverables include a thorough review of Libya's existing national digital documents, strategies related to digital transformation, innovation, and technology, as well as alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The final report must be submitted in Arabic in electronic format, reflecting the policy's intended use by Libyan government institutions.

Key Facts at a Glance

  • The General Information Authority (GIA) is the lead Libyan body requesting UNESCWA's technical assistance on blockchain policy development.
  • The consultancy requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in digital technologies, with a Master's degree in ICT, computer science, or a related field.
  • The policy report must be at least 30 pages, include an executive summary, table of contents, and full source references.
  • The application deadline is June 26, 2026, with fluency in both Arabic and English required.
  • This initiative aligns with Libya's broader digital transformation strategy, including electronic payment adoption and government service modernization.

Building on Recent Digital Momentum

The blockchain policy push does not exist in isolation. In January 2026, the GIA organized a specialized workshop on blockchain technology at its Tripoli headquarters, focused on enhancing national data security and consolidating digital trust. Just months later, Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Aldabaiba inaugurated the Libya International Exhibition for Electronic Payment and Digital Transformation (EPAIX 2026) at the Tripoli International Fair, featuring over 40 participating entities from banking, telecom, and fintech sectors. Aldabaiba described digital transformation as "a strategic investment in the future of Libya" during his opening address.

Why This Matters for Libyans

For a country that has faced over a decade of institutional fragmentation, a unified national blockchain policy represents far more than a technology upgrade. It is a foundational step toward transparent governance, secure public records, and a digital economy that can attract international investment. Blockchain technology could help Libya streamline land registration, government procurement, identity management, and financial transactions — areas where trust deficits have long hindered progress. The fact that the GIA is driving this initiative, with UN backing, suggests a level of institutional commitment that previous digital efforts have lacked.

What Comes Next

With the consultancy application window closing on June 26, UNESCWA is expected to select a qualified expert to lead the policy development process. The resulting document will need buy-in from multiple Libyan institutions, including the Central Bank of Libya and various ministries, to become actionable. If implemented effectively, Libya's national blockchain policy could serve as a model for other post-conflict states seeking to leapfrog traditional infrastructure through distributed ledger technology. For Libyan citizens and businesses, the message is clear: the digital future is taking shape now.

— LibyaPress / Tech Desk