UN says funding shortfall for humanitarian assistance in Libya becoming critical


With US$166 million urgently needed for humanitarian assistance in Libya, less than US$5 million has been raised.

That's the stark assessment of the Chief of the UN Support Mission in Libya, Ali Al-Za'tari, who called for the international community to increase the level of funding for humanitarian supplies.

He said that UN agencies had "no difficulties" in accessing those civilians in need, but that money and supplies had simply not been forthcoming.

Contributions so far amount to just 2.6 per cent of the total required for essentials such as food and medical supplies.

Rival political groups and factions are fighting for control of the oil-rich country, which descended into civil war following the overthrow of Muammar al-Qhadafi in 2011.

SOURCE: UN Radio