The Norwegian Red Cross has praised the efforts of the Libyan Red Crescent, Derna branch, during a recent visit.
Anis Ahmed Al-Maziny, Director of the Derna branch, welcomed a delegation from the Norwegian Red Cross. The delegation included Jacob Håkon, Director of International Operations; Sebastian Foster, Regional Representative for the Middle East and North Africa; Mohamed Hamoud, Director of Operations for the Middle East and North Africa; and Dr. Ayoub Ayoub, Head of the Libya Office. Mohamed Ben Khayal attended on behalf of the General Secretariat.
According to a statement from the Libyan Red Crescent Derna branch, the Director of International Operations praised the tremendous efforts made towards the city of Derna in recent times.
He expressed his deepest gratitude and appreciation to the association’s volunteers for their continuous contributions.
The delegation also visited the Psychosocial Support Center in Derna and the Libyan Red Crescent Clinic in Derna to review the latest developments in these centers.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
