STATEMENT BY SRSG BATHILY AND DSRSG RC/HC GAGNON ON THE SIX-MONTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEVASTATING FLOODS IN DERNA AND AFFECTED AREAS

Tripoli - 11 March – Six months after Storm Daniel and devastating floods struck the city of Derna and the surrounding areas in eastern Libya, our thoughts and condolences remain with the people and communities affected by this disaster.

We have witnessed the outstanding efforts of local people to rebuild and enhance their communities and commend their remarkable resilience and strength.

On this anniversary, we call on Libyan authorities and actors to collectively take forward reconstruction that focuses on the needs and best interests of the people whose lives were so severely affected by the floods.

We underscore the need for a coordinated national platform for reconstruction, for the release of funds for long-term reconstruction efforts, and for their transparent management and distribution with effective oversight and accountability to the Libyan people. The UN reaffirms its commitment to supporting a coordinated national platform for inclusive and resilient recovery that prioritizes the livelihoods and efforts of affected people.

Since the floods, the United Nations in Libya has been working in Derna and the affected municipalities in coordination with local and national authorities, humanitarian agencies and international partners, to provide assistance and support to the affected people.

To date, the UN in Libya and its humanitarian partners have reached 247,000 people, with emergency humanitarian assistance, including shelter, clean water, food, educational support, medical and psycho-social support.

The United Nations in Libya remains committed to supporting the people of Derna and the surrounding areas with their recovery as the humanitarian response concludes. We will continue to work closely with local and international partners to assist in rebuilding lives and communities, promoting sustainable development, and advocating for the rights and well-being of all affected people.