Questioning the No-Fly Zone in Libya

Yesterday, the UN Security Council voted to authorize a no-fly zone in Libya to be enforced by NATO, after weeks of violence and rebellion in that country.  Part of a wave of uprisings that have swept across the region, pro-democracy protests in Libya have been met by brutal force.

In response, many voices in the international community have called for a no-fly zone to protect Libyan civilians and to dislodge the regime.  However, many who cheered the successful protests in Tunisia and Egypt are questioning whether progressives should support or oppose a no-fly zone. Opponents recognize that such a military campaign includes bombing raids that endanger civilian lives. Supporters of a no-fly zone argue that the Libyan opposition is calling for the intervention and deserve international assistance.

 As you formulate your own position in this fast-moving debate, here are some questions to consider:

• Does the imposition of a no-fly zone with humanitarian justifications cover up other underlying intentions?
• Does the Libyan opposition have a progressive vision? Who are the voices among the Libyan opposition that progressives should support?
• Is the no-fly zone the best way to protect Libyan civilians? What alternatives exist to promote human rights and democracy in Libya?

As we work towards answers to these questions, we will share resources and analysis here.