UN official: Libyan children live in ‘catastrophic conditions’

UNICEF Special Representative in Libya Ghassan Khalil has said that Libyan children are living under “catastrophic conditions”, which are becoming more difficult over time.

Khalil made his remarks to Anadolu news agency on the side-lines of his meeting with the Embassy of Libya Health Attaché Masoud Greifah on Tuesday.

Khalil added that Libyan children, both in the country and those in Tunisia and Egypt, face very difficult situations, pointing out that the recent period has witnessed “an increase in abductions and abuses against children”.

Khalil urged the Libyan parties “not to undertake any action that threatens the children rights”, stressing that involving children in armed conflict is a crime against humanity punishable by the International Criminal Court.

Khalil said the deterioration of security and the absence of a political solution that unites the warring parties have contributed to the worsening of children’s conditions.

Meanwhile, Greifah has criticised the United Nations’ lack of support for Libyans with disabilities residing in Tunisia.

According to Greifah, the key issue facing Libyans in Tunisia is the struggle to cover their living costs.

“Libyans in Tunisia are treated like tourists and have to pay all fees as tourists. They also need to leave the country every three months to renew their visas,” he added.