The United Nations has reiterated its commitment to supporting the recovery of Derna and northeastern Libya, pledging to help restore essential services and strengthen community resilience following the devastating floods that struck the region last year.
In a statement, the UN in Libya paid tribute to the lives lost and the families whose futures were forever altered by the floods in Derna. “The grief remains profound,” the statement said, “yet the strength of Libyan communities shines through, as they have faced unimaginable loss with courage, dignity, and unity.”
The UN emphasized that it continues to work in close partnership with national and local authorities to provide recovery assistance. This includes the restoration of basic services, humanitarian support for displaced families, and long-term projects aimed at building resilience to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The organization underscored its unwavering solidarity with all those affected, reaffirming that international cooperation remains vital to ensuring Derna’s full recovery and to safeguarding the well-being of Libyan communities.
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.
