The process of nation building is a long and tedious one. It not only requires that all the people of the nation are included, but also that the plans for moving forward put the interests of the country and its people above all. Libya today faces a number of obstacles as it begins its rebuilding process. And this can only be successful if the interests and voice of the people are the driving forces.
After the fall of the regime of Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan people are faced perhaps with the biggest challenge since the country's independence. What is the best route to take when setting up the building blocks for future generations? And how does a country move smoothly from dictatorship to democracy? This is certainly an uphill task, given the various issues that warrant attention.
First of all, the country must address all its current and future needs in terms of infrastructure development. This means that actual basic needs and not mere promises will have to be provided for millions of people.
Secondly, Libya will have to redefine its relationship with other Arab countries as well as its stance on world issues. And this should be determined keeping the interests of the country in mind.
Yet one of the most important issues that the Libyan people will need to address is how the country's past is tackled. This will include individuals who worked for the old regime and are now under arrest as well as those who were victims of the regime's injustice.
Addressing this area without prejudice, bias or discrimination is the only means for Libyans to move forward. But in order to achieve all this, the Libyan people must stand together.
