$12 million in humanitarian relief for Libya (March 3, 2011)
March 2, 2011
United States Support for UNHCR and IOM For their Response to the Crisis in Libya
The United States commends UNHCR and IOM for their quick response to the Libya crisis and for their collaborative approach in meeting the needs of those fleeing conflict in Libya.
On March 2, addressing a special session focused on the crisis in Libya during UNHCR’s Standing Committee, Ambassador Betty E. King reflected that on this 60th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Status of Refugees, Egypt and Tunisia, by opening their borders to provide a safe haven to refugees, returning nationals, and third-country nationals, have reminded us all of the importance of providing protection and asylum to those in need. Ambassador King added that “the United States understands the incredible strain such large numbers of people have placed on receiving governments and people, and we stand ready to support the international community as it works with Egypt and Tunisia to respond to the influx.”
Ambassador King pointed out that the United States shares UNHCR’s and IOM’s concern for refugees and third country nationals still stranded inside Libya and we urge Libyans to take all measures possible to ensure their safety and to facilitate UNHCR and IOM evacuation planning.
To support this effort, Secretary Clinton announced that the United States will provide an initial $10 million in support to international and non-governmental organizations. In addition, on March 1, the U.S. made $2 million available to IOM to support its Libya Evacuation and Stabilization Project, for the evacuation of third country nationals from Libya and the onward repatriation of evacuees in Tunisia and Egypt. Additional assistance will be forthcoming as we work with UNHCR, IOM, and other partners to better assess the situation and resource requirements.
Click here for full text of remarks