The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Libya has warned that the humanitarian crisis in the country could deteriorate with the continuation of the fighting and registering of new Coronavirus cases, which is threatens Libya and the whole world.
UNHCR indicated that the registration of 10 cases of coronavirus – now 17 in total- and the death of one case raises new concerns in Libya, which has a fragile health sector, the possibility of its collapse and its inability to respond to the outbreak of the pandemic.
The Head of UNHCR delegation in Libya, Jean-Paul Cavalieri, said that the containment of the Coronavirus epidemic must coincide with a ceasefire of the conflict in the country, saying if this does not happen, Libya will face a humanitarian catastrophe.
He pointed out that it is difficult for people in Libya to obtain their basic needs in light of the current conditions that Libya is going through, which means that the tense situation warns of tragic levels which could have a major impact on the lives of refugees and the displaced people in the first place.
“The ongoing conflict has severely affected the health system and medical services in Libya, which has limited financial resources and faces a shortage of equipment and essential medicines. Many hospitals or health facilities, which are located in areas close to the conflict, have also been destroyed.” He added.
UNHCR confirmed that it is trying to raise public health awareness among refugees, asylum seekers and Libyans, through posters, text messages and social media, with the aim of reducing the risk of exposure to Covid-19.
It pointed out that the residents of the areas near the frontlines of fighting face great challenges in accessing basic goods and public services, and the deteriorating security has led to an increase in the crime rate in those areas, with increased cases of thefts and assaults.
UNHCR reiterated the appeal of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who urged warring parties around the world to stop fighting to support the response to the Coronavirus pandemic.
