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UNHCR Libya Operation Update, 24 July - 1 August 2017

Countries
Libya
+ 6 more
Sources
UNHCR
Publication date

Highlights

  • As of 31 July 2017, 42,346 refugees and asylum seekers are registered with UNHCR in Libya. Over 5,400 individuals were registered since UNHCR resumed registration in 2016, and 376 registered during the month of July alone. Men represent 42% of the registered refugees and asylum seekers, women 27% and children 30%. Syrians continue to represent the highest number of refugees and asylum seekers registered, accounting for 21,270 individuals (50%), followed by Palestinians (6,636; 15%), Eritreans (4,687; 11%), Sudanese (3,531; 8%) and Iraqis (3,107, 7%). UNHCR registers refugees and asylum seekers based on the seven nationality groups currently recognised by Libyan authorities as coming from refugee producing countries and continues to seek access to all nationalities. Refugees and asylum-seekers are amongst the most vulnerable populations in Libya. They are at risk of violence, exploitation and abuse. In recent discussions with UNHCR staff, they highlighted difficulties faced in Libya, including restricted access to basic services. UNHCR registration and documentation activities help refugees better access public services, including schools and hospitals.

  • UNHCR supported the Libyan public health system through the provision of 43 pallets of essential medical supplies to be distributed among Libyan hospitals. This contribution to the Ministry of Health, will benefit IDPs, refugees, and host populations. This is UNHCR’s second contribution, as a previous delivery of medical supplies was handed-over to the Ministry of Health on 13 July.

  • UNHCR participated in a joint UN assessment mission to Benghazi to further facilitate the organization’s humanitarian work and allow for increased support to Libyans most affected by the crisis. The aim of the mission was to establish steadier and more frequent humanitarian assistance to the families in need inside the city. UNHCR plans to increase its response to the 42,300 IDPs and 133,050 returned IDPs in Benghazi. Through its partner LibAid, UNHCR will deliver core relief items, while monthly cash assistance to the most vulnerable IDP households (3,000 individuals) will continue to be distributed through ACTED.

KEY FIGURES

  • 240,188 Libyans currently internally displaced persons (IDPs)

  • 249,298 returned IDPs (returns registered in 2017)

  • 42,346 registered refugees and asylum-seekers in Libya

  • 95,088 persons arriving in Italy by sea so far in 2017

FUNDING

USD 75.5 million required for IDPs and refugees in Libya in 2017