Adrian Pelt and his role in Libyan independence at the United Nations (1949–1951)

Abstract

In accordance with the United Nations General Assembly resolution, it was necessary to closely monitor internal developments in Libya in order to launch and consolidate the constitutional or parliamentary experiment. However, the major leap forward resulted from the issuance of Resolution No. 289 issued by the United Nations in Lexus on November 21, 1949, which stipulated international recognition of Libya's independence no later than January 1, 1952. The UN resolution entered into force when the General Assembly approved, on December 10, 1949, the appointment of Adrian Pelt, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations, as its representative to Libya. Pelt was a Dutch journalist, international official, and diplomat, best known for drafting Libya's post-war constitution. However, he was criticized for working to establish the basis for separation between the three parts of Libya, consolidate the foundations of colonial rule, and establish local governments pending the establishment of a federal state, not a unified state. Pelt attempted to justify this action by claiming that the federal system was more compatible with Libya's circumstances and demographic nature.