Post-Uprising Libyan Associations and Democracy Building in Urban Libya

The article shows how various volunteer groups became the main channel to address the disorganization of the State in large Libyan cities during the uprising. The new leadership gave them legal status, and their number increased to 3,000. Many of their charitable activities vanished with the oil revenue being distributed again. They diversified their activities to democracy building, along with former opposition army, police, administration, enterprises, tribe elites, etc. who joined the uprising. They mobilized the people to elect new local councils, parliament and government and then to compel the militia and the government to respect the new institutions and rights. They acted as consultants, lobbyists, media, trade unions, etc. They also gave to their educated members social status. Post-Qaddafi Libyan associations remain key partners for a sustainable democracy, and as a main source for social control.