UNHCR begins emergency distributions in Libya to refugees and asylum-seekers
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The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has begun a series of emergency distributions in the Libyan capital Tripoli, to assist refugees and asylum-seekers during the holy fasting month of Ramadan, as the country’s conflict persists and amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The aid includes hygiene kits, purification tablets, provided by sister agency, UNICEF, and a food basket that will last one month.
The distribution is the first of a series planned during Ramadan. In the first week, nearly 500 people will be reached with assistance. The aim is to reach up to 4,000 beneficiaries during the holy month.
Head of the Libyan Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency Colonel Mabrouk Abdulhafid has confirmed that some 700,000 illegal migrants were in Libya.
The UNHCR had in April voiced concern that the ongoing fighting in Tripoli will hamper the country’s ability to confront the novel coronavirus.
Aid distributions have been organized in coordination with the local relevant authorities and partners, LibAid, the International Rescue Committee, and UN OCHA, to ensure social distancing and the security and safety of individuals receiving assistance, the UNHCR noted.
Further, the UNHCR and partners have conducted public health awareness among refugees, asylum-seekers and Libyans, through posters, text messages and social media, aimed at mitigating the risks of exposure to COVID-19.
The High Commissioner echoed the appeal of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging warring parties across the world to cease their fighting in support of the response to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
