The European Union is initiating a new program worth 50 million euros to improve the living conditions in major Libyan municipalities that are home to numerous vulnerable populations. The new funding that was established under the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa will target not only migrants and refugees but also local population. The main focus is on the provision of basic and social services for vulnerable people including health, education, water and sanitation, and support local governance.
The EU has been working closely with various stakeholders in the country to assist Libya to respond to the pressing needs that the country is facing. This particular program “is meant to address the needs of migrants and of the local communities that are particularly exposed to the migratory flows. The European Union will continue to stay at the side of Libyans and of all the people in need,” Mrs. Mogherini said. Commissioner for Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn, also added that this new initiative was a proof of the EU’s continuous commitment to assist Libya in responding to the humanitarian crisis within its borders.
The implementation will be closely coordinated with the Libyan Government of National Accord while the EU will be continuously working to bring a lasting solution to the crisis and restore peace and stability. EU’s work in Libya is also part of a broader strategy to address the situation in the Central Mediterranean Route that was started in January 2017. The efforts were further accelerated at the end of that year when the Joint Task Force committed to accelerate ongoing efforts to help migrants and refugees in the North African country.
