Libyan economist Atia al-Fituri has expressed concerns over the new unified salary scale recently adopted by the Libyan government. Al-Fituri stated that the decision, issued by the Prime Minister of the Interim National Unity Government, contains legal flaws and contradictions, particularly regarding its effective date and adoption mechanism. The decision, numbered 474 of 2026, aims to unify salaries for employees in various sectors and administrative units funded by the public treasury.
Al-Fituri pointed out that the fourth article of the decision stipulates that it will be presented to the Council of Ministers for approval in its next meeting, implying that the decision is still in the form of a draft or proposal subject to amendments. He questioned how the decision could take effect on October 6, 2026, despite not having been approved by the Council of Ministers yet. This, according to al-Fituri, creates a contradiction between the adoption and enforcement of the decision.
The economist also criticized the decision's third article, which cancels all previous decisions and regulations related to salary scales, including distinction allowances and benefits. Al-Fituri wondered if the decision could override legal texts that established these benefits. He cited Article 142 of the Labor Relations Law No. 12 of 2010, which stipulates that employees are entitled to all rights established by law and regulations issued pursuant to it, and that these rights cannot be reduced or suspended except by law.
Al-Fituri argued that the current salary scales and amendments were issued based on Laws No. 18 and No. 34 of 2023, which were applied in accordance with Article 142 of the Labor Relations Law. He described the new decision as "unacceptable" to all parties affected by it, claiming it contradicts the "spirit of the law." Al-Fituri suggested that the government should prepare a new draft law on salaries and job benefits and submit it to the House of Representatives for approval.
On the other hand, the Interim National Unity Government announced the adoption of a unified salary scale for employees in various sectors and administrative units funded by the public treasury, effective October 6, 2026. The new scale includes a 10% increase compared to the previous scale, aiming to apply the principle of social justice. The government tasked the Ministry of Finance with preparing a proposal on distinction allowances for jobs with special nature and controls for entitlement.
The decision also stipulates the cancellation of previous decisions and regulations related to special salary scales and financial benefits linked to them. Al-Fituri's criticism reflects concerns about the potential impact of the new salary scale on employees' incomes and the overall economic situation in Libya. The government's move aims to achieve fairness and justice in the distribution of salaries, but its implementation may face challenges.
The controversy surrounding the new unified salary scale highlights the complexities of addressing economic and social issues in Libya. The government's efforts to reform the salary system face criticism from experts like al-Fituri, who argue that the decision may have unintended consequences. The effectiveness of the new salary scale in improving the living standards of Libyan employees remains to be seen.
Key points
- Economist Atia al-Fituri criticizes the new unified salary scale for its potential to reduce employees' real income and increase poverty.
