A lack of aid organizations working on the ground could complicate the crisis in Libya, according to the European Union’s humanitarian aid chief.
Inspired by street revolts in Tunisia and Egypt that ousted decades-old authoritarian regimes, Libyan protesters have been taking to the streets in a bid to overthrow dictator Moammar Gaddafi. At least 62 people have died due to violent measures taken by Libyan authorities to disperse demonstrators, according to Human Rights Watch.
“Of the countries in the region, I am most worried about Libya due to the lack of support organisations on the ground,” EU humanitarian aid commissioner Kristalina Georgieva said on Feb. 22, as quoted by EUobserver.
The political crisis in Libya has also contributed to rising oil prices, which have pushed food prices upward, Georgieva said.
“Already for the most vulnerable, the food bill is going up. If it continues to go up, more and more people will be pushed into extreme poverty,” she added.
The International Committee of the Red Cross has informed the European Commission that it was sending a mission to Libya to assist its partner organization in the country.
“If they are on the ground and delivering in Libya the EU would definitely support them,” an EU contact told EUobserver.
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