National Unity in the Midst of Political Fragmentation: Lessons from Libya's Struggle for National Cohesion and Their Relevance for Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29407/r53xep26Abstract
This paper examines the positive dimension of Libyan national consciousness that persists despite momentous challenges to state authority and territorial integrity. Rather than focusing on institutional collapse or armed fragmentation, the paper highlights three significant values embedded in Libyan society: the subordination of group identity to national sentiment, the mediating role of tribal and customary leaders in conflict resolution, and the cultural and political centrality of dialogue and negotiated settlement. Drawing on conflict-resolution theory, nationalism studies, and hybrid governance frameworks, the paper argues that these three values offer analytical and practical insights for Indonesia's own nation-building project, particularly in contexts where diversity threatens cohesion. The paper concludes with policy-relevant recommendations for strengthening national unity through investment in identity education, formal integration of customary mediators, and strategic addressing of regional grievances
Keywords:
National Unity, Libya, Nation-Building, Reconciliation, Tribal Mediation, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, Indonesia, Conflict Resolution, Civic IdentityDownloads
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Copyright (c) 2026 Naser Ali Abdulghani Idrees (Author)
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