On Sunday, the Libyan government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) signed a work plan to strengthen child protection systems, and justice for children in Libya.
Under the agreement, UNICEF will provide technical support to the Libyan Ministry of Interior for implementation, fostering the achievement of shared goals.
The focus is on enhancing the quality and coordination of child protection services, particularly for juvenile children, through supporting the Child and Family Protection Units within the ministry.
According to the statement, this plan represents “a significant step towards reforming the juvenile justice system in line with international standards and Libyan law, ultimately bolstering child protection in Libya.”
The organization expressed “anticipation for a continued partnership with the Ministry of Interior, to realize the shared vision and agreed-upon objectives.”
Last month, UNICEF announced that it provided 200 equipped school bags to 72 schools, benefiting 8,000 children in Libya.
This response was prompted by the devastating storm Daniel, which struck the eastern part of the country.
UNICEF emphasised that “education is a lifeline for children in emergencies,” reaffirming that “access to high-quality education is the key to their bright future.”
Earlier in November, UNICEF announced the beginning of rehabilitation efforts for 11 schools, in the cities of Al-Bayda and Shahat, eastern Libya. This aims to assist in returning students from Derna, to their educational institutions.
In a statement issued, UNICEF highlighted its ongoing work to ensure the safe return of children to school, and the resumption of their education, particularly in the aftermath of the recent deadly floods.
The statement also pointed out that a rapid assessment of the schools affected by the floods has begun the process of cleaning and rehabilitation. These efforts are intended to support the Ministry of Education in reopening these schools, for the start of the academic year in Derna.
UNICEF further indicated its commitment to providing essential classroom furniture, including student and teacher desks, as well as replacement whiteboards for those damaged by the floods.