The appointment of Martin had been expected after the United Nations last week set up a mission to help rebuild Libya after the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi.
Martin, a former Secretary General of Amnesty International, had previously served as the U.N. special envoy on post-conflict planning for Libya. He is also a former U.N. special envoy in Nepal.
Earlier this month, Martin told Reuters the proliferation of weapons in Libya was a worry and that the new rulers needed to establish a proper police force and army to replace the many armed groups patrolling the streets.
Martin is expected to lead a mission of up to 200 U.N. staff with an initial three-month mandate. Their tasks will range from electoral assistance to police training.
The United Nations said it had appointed Finland`s Georg Charpentier, an expert on Africa, as Martin`s deputy. (*)
Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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