Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called for an urgent, and independent inquiry into the mismanagement of catastrophic flooding in eastern Libya in September.
The devastating floods, resulting from the collapse of two dams, led to widespread destruction, thousands of casualties, and displacement of tens of thousands.
HRW said that conflicting evacuation orders and a curfew trapped residents in the coastal city of Derna, as torrents of water surged through the area, despite receiving flood warnings days in advance.
The UN reported at least 4,352 fatalities, 43,000 displacements, and 8,000 missing. While Libya’s authorities initiated an investigation and vowed to provide compensation, questions linger about the adequacy of their response.
Human Rights Watch stressed the need for an independent international investigation, citing concerns about the maintenance of ageing infrastructure, particularly the collapsed dams.
The flooding severely impacted critical infrastructure, hospitals, and schools in Derna, leaving a lasting impact on the affected communities. Experts attribute the exacerbated harm to political instability, inadequate infrastructure maintenance, and ineffective early warning systems.
Libyan engineers had previously warned about vulnerabilities in the dams, but concerns were not adequately addressed. A 2022 hydrology study had classified the area as “high risk,” emphasizing the urgent need for maintenance and awareness campaigns. The World Meteorological Organization had issued warnings 72 hours before the storm, emphasizing preventive measures.
The aftermath saw dismissals of local authorities, protests, and detentions. The general prosecutor opened a criminal investigation into officials linked to the dams’ management, but no findings have been disclosed.
Political divisions between the two rival governments further complicated reconstruction, and compensation efforts.
As Libya faces challenges exacerbated by climate change, the call for an independent inquiry seeks accountability, lessons for disaster management, and justice for the victims.