Libya must provide access for emergency relief

The conflict in Libya has escalated over the past few days, with large-scale acts of war now taking place. The fighting is causing great suffering to the civilian population. “The international community is sending a clear message to the regime in Tripoli that those responsible for committing atrocities against civilians will be held accountable,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.  

Next week, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights will start investigating the atrocities committed against the civilian population in Libya. The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has also announced that the Court will open an investigation.                                       

“I am deeply concerned that the Libyan authorities are not giving the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross the access they need to assess the situation in Western Libya and to provide emergency relief. This is a clear violation of international humanitarian law,” said the Foreign Minister.  

The parties to the conflict have an obligation to respect international humanitarian law. This means that they must distinguish between military targets and civilians, and effectively protect the civilian population.  

The humanitarian situation in Libya’s neighbouring countries is still critical as a result of the conflict. The UN is doing an excellent job providing humanitarian aid in areas on the borders with Tunisia and Egypt. So far, more than 100 000 migrant workers have been evacuated to their countries of origin. 

“The international community must stand united in its condemnation of the Libyan authorities’ brutality and lack of respect for international law. It is particularly important that regional actors such as the African Union and the Arab League launch initiatives to help the civilian population in Libya and contribute to a long-term solution to the conflict,” said Mr Støre.