Humanitarian needs in Libya

USPA NEWS - The European Commission is giving €6 million in humanitarian funding to meet the most urgent needs of the people who have been severely affected by the conflict in Libya. This includes migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

Christos Stylianides, EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, said: "The EU will not abandon people in Libya suffering as a result of the conflict. The EU's impartial and neutral humanitarian response is crucial and is solely given to meet urgent needs. We urge all parties to the conflict to halt attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructures, such as hospitals and schools, and ensure immediate, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to all people in need."

The new fund will primarily support the delivery of items such as kitchen sets, blankets and mattresses, as well as health and protection for the most vulnerable people. The funds will also help humanitarian organisations better assess the situation, so they can improve their response to needs on the ground.

Background:
The conflict in Libya has had a considerable impact on the lives of civilians, causing shortages of medical supplies, displacement, and disrupting basic services and communications. It has become progressively difficult for people to access food and fuel supplies.

Since the crisis escalated a year ago, the European Commission has mobilised support of the United Nations, international organisations and INGOs to respond to humanitarian needs in Libya. In total, the Commission has contributed €8.76 million in humanitarian aid to Libya since the current crisis started in mid-2014. Over 434 000 people in Libya have been forcibly displaced, almost doubling the number reported in 2014.