EU launches €50 million program to improve services in Libyan cities

The new actions will benefit migrants, refugees, Internally Displaced Persons, returnees and host communities alike. Formulated jointly by the European Commission and Italy, the new programme will enhance access to basic and social services for vulnerable people and support local governance, in particular in the Libyan municipalities most affected by migratory flows, the EU posted Monday on its website.

“This new programme will support the capacities of local public authorities and administrations in providing basic services – health, education, water and sanitation as well as social services – while improving timely and quality access to these services, in particular for the most vulnerable people. It will cover 24 Libyan municipalities, ensuring a wide and balanced coverage across the country. The programme will be implemented by the Italian Cooperation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).” It added.

According to the EU, the implementation will be closely coordinated with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) and the Presidential Council, taking into account the needs of the local population as well as those from migrants and vulnerable groups in order to foster better inclusion and stability.

“To this end the European Union will continue to work closely with the UN Special Representative for Libya to bring a lasting solution to the crisis and restore peace and stability in the country.” The EU reported.

As part of a comprehensive approach to support Libya and joint efforts with Italy, this programme expands both geographically and financially the support provided by the EU to Libyan municipalities across the country, and in particular, along the main migration routes, the EU added.