Money Laundering and Its Implications for Libyan National Security: A Study of the Political and Economic Dimensions

Abstract

In light of the rapid transformations taking place in the contemporary world, and the accompanying cross-border threats that have gone beyond traditional military dimensions, money laundering has emerged in Libya as a complex issue that directly affects the stability of the state and the foundations of Libyan national security. This phenomenon is no longer merely a financial crime; rather, it has become a multifaceted threat in which economic, political, and security dimensions overlap, negatively affecting the ability of the Libyan state to maintain stability and protect its national interests.

This study aims to analyze the phenomenon of money laundering and to identify its implications for Libyan national security, with a focus on the political and economic dimensions, as these are among the areas most affected by this phenomenon in the Libyan context. The study proceeds from the problem that money laundering in Libya is no longer confined to legitimizing illicit funds; instead, it has become a strategic threat by weakening the Libyan economy, distorting the financial structure, undermining the efficiency of state institutions, and creating a favorable environment for the spread of corruption and organized crime.

The study assumes that money laundering represents a complex threat to Libyan national security, given its links to corruption networks and transnational crime, as well as its ability to penetrate Libya’s economic and political structures and affect the core functions of the state. The importance of this study lies in providing an analytical approach within the field of political science to understand the nature of this non-traditional threat in Libya, while emphasizing that confronting it should not be limited to legal and regulatory measures alone. Rather, it requires comprehensive policies based on strengthening good governance, supporting transparency, developing institutional frameworks, and activating international cooperation in a manner that serves the protection of the Libyan state.

The study concludes that money laundering constitutes a real threat to Libyan national security because of the economic, political, and institutional imbalances it creates within Libya. Therefore, combating it is a strategic necessity for protecting the stability of the Libyan state, enhancing its ability to address emerging threats, and safeguarding its national security in its various dimensions.