REGIONAL RISK PROFILE.

There is growing speculation in diplomatic circles that Libya will be forced to relinquish its seat on the UN Security Council, which is expected to be granted to Libya for the 2004-2005 period. This is wholly down to U.S. pressure, which is still irked by Libya's assumption of the presidency of the UN Human Rights commission earlier in 2003. This article also presents an overview of short term political and economic risks faced by four countries of North Africa.