IOM begs for $4.3m for Libya displaced

As three weeks of fighting in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, has displaced close to 35,000 people, claimed over 200 lives, and injured more than 1,000, further insecurity, continued displacements and large-scale humanitarian and protection needs are expected as the conflict continues to intensify.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has provided emergency assistance to all affected populations since hostilities began but funding shortfalls are now affecting its ability to meet the critical needs of both migrants and the local families displaced by the fighting.

"Families are fleeing their homes as fighting in southern Tripoli rages,” Othman Belbeisi, IOM Libya Chief of Mission said during the week. “With thousands of people running for safety every day, and more than 3,000 detained migrants who remain at high risk, immediate action is needed to provide crucial support to vulnerable civilians in Tripoli." 

IOM is therefore appealing to the international community for $4.3m to allow for the delivery of multi-sectoral lifesaving assistance to individuals affected by the ongoing conflict for the next three months.

The interventions will target over 38,000 migrants and persons displaced as a direct consequence of the armed clashes.