Jean-Paul Cavalieri, head of the UNHCR mission in Libya, briefed US Ambassador Richard Norland, and embassy staff on UNHCR’s vital activities for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP), refugees, asylum seekers and their host communities in Libya.
In a video call with the ambassador, Cavalieri also reviewed the UNHCR’s ongoing coordination with the World Health Organization, and Libyan authorities to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ambassador Norland and Mr. Cavalieri, discussed the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, noting that refugees, asylum seekers and IDP’s are greatly affected by the conflict, and a number of hospitals and health facilities have been attacked.
The two stressed the importance of preventing any discrimination and stigmatization against refugees and migrants in the midst of this global pandemic, as the virus can infect anyone and does not differentiate between nationality or race.
In response to the unfolding crisis, UNHCR is expanding its assistance to the health sector in communities throughout Libya, Cavalieri stated. He added that UNHCR has donated hygiene and medical equipment, and six four-wheel drive ambulances to local municipalities, health authorities, and the Libyan Red Crescent, including in the south where access to health care is limited.