Mustafa Ben Halim and His Role in Building the Libyan State (1954–1957)

Abstract

This research examines the life of Mustafa Ahmed Ben Halim, a former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Libya (1954–1957), highlighting his pivotal role in the foundational phase of building the modern Libyan state. It explores his background and political career, underscoring his fundamental contributions to establishing key economic and financial institutions—such as the Central Bank of Libya and the Agricultural Bank. Additionally, the study focuses on his legislative role in drafting the Petroleum Law, which established the regulatory framework for exploiting oil wealth and defined the mechanis In Libya, he advanced this sector and fostered educational and cultural development by establishing the Libyan University—which served as the foundation for higher education in the country. Ben Halim’s efforts were not limited to domestic institution-building; they were accompanied by the strengthening of foreign relations. He pursued a balanced policy that focused on concluding agreements with the United States and solidifying ties with Britain and France, in addition to addressing the issue of liquidating Italian assets in Libya during the post-war period.ms for granting concessions to operating foreign companies.