The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) in Libya and the Libyan Ministry of Interior collaborated with the aim of enhancing a child-friendly justice system. The two parties are on the brink of sealing a joint action plan, marking a pivotal step towards forging a safe environment for children within the justice framework.
UNICEF persists in its mission to bolster the capacities of the Family and Child Protection Units. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both entities to prioritise the welfare and rights of children in Libya.
The proposed joint action plan represents not only a synergy of efforts but also a vision for the future where children’s rights are central to Libya’s justice system. As global and local entities join forces, the nation takes a step closer to ensuring that its youngest citizens experience fairness, security, and respect.
Last month, the Swiss Government announced a substantial contribution of $800,000 dollars to UNICEF’s program in Libya. This significant financial aid is intended to support vulnerable children in the country, through social protection, education, and child-centric protective services.
UNICEF’s Representative in Libya, Michele Servadei, commended the Swiss government for its generous donation. This is aimed at improving access to comprehensive social protection services, and strengthening child protection systems.
Servadei regards this support as “a crucial step towards creating an inclusive and preventive environment for all children, particularly those most at risk.”
He also noted that over the past few years, Switzerland has been working closely with partners in Libya to meet the needs of children, youth, and vulnerable families.
As well as further highlighting that “this contribution to UNICEF signifies our continued commitment to protect the most vulnerable children, including through education and social protection. These provisions offer a critical safety net for the most fragile segments of the population.”
Earlier, UNICEF stated that nearly 289 children are known to have died in the first half of 2023, while trying to cross the Mediterranean sea from Libya and Tunisia, according to AFP.
UNICEF said in a press release the number of deaths is equated to nearly eleven children “dying or disappearing every week, as they search for safety, peace, and better opportunities.”
