Protection of Public Funds in Libyan and Egyptian Legislation: A Comparative Study in Light of Contemporary Legislative Challenges

Abstract

This comparative study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the legislative framework in both the State of Libya and the Arab Republic of Egypt regarding the protection of public funds and the confrontation of crimes involving attacks on them. The research presents the conceptual framework of public money according to civil rules in both legislations, highlighting the "public utility allocation" criterion as a fundamental pillar for acquiring public status. It also analyzes the legal rules that guarantee the immunity of public funds, represented by the prohibition of their disposal, attachment, or acquisition by prescription. On the level of deterrent protection, the study addresses the criminal protection established for crimes of embezzlement, misappropriation, and intentional damage by detailing their legal elements, while demonstrating the role of oversight bodies in enhancing transparency and detecting violations. Furthermore, the research discusses the extent to which both legislations keep pace with economic transformations and emerging criminal patterns, particularly in the digital sphere. The study concludes by emphasizing the necessity of developing legislative frameworks to ensure an effective balance between safeguarding public funds and achieving the requirements of economic efficiency.