Human Lives Human Rights: Six months after the devastating floods in Derna claimed the lives of at least 4,352 individuals and displaced tens of thousands, Libyan authorities are being called upon to conduct thorough investigations into the role of influential military and political figures. The failure to assign accountability and ensure equitable compensation for all affected parties has raised concerns regarding the protection of human rights in the aftermath of the disaster.
A recent report titled “In seconds everything changed”: Justice and redress elusive for Derna flood survivors highlights the lack of adequate warnings and risk mitigation measures taken by both the Government of National Unity (GNU) based in Tripoli and the Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF) controlling the disaster-stricken areas. Despite offering financial compensation to some affected individuals, the process has been marred by delays and discrimination against refugees, migrants, and certain Libyan residents.
DEATH TOLL: 4,352
MISSING: Thousands
DISPLACED: 44,862
As the investigation into the catastrophic floods lingers, concerns about accountability intensify, especially in the face of potential future climate-induced disasters. The report underscores the urgency for accountability measures, given Libya’s vulnerable infrastructure, fragmented political institutions, and the unchecked power of militias and armed groups.
The response to criticisms of the authorities’ handling of the crisis has been marked by crackdowns, with reports of arbitrary detentions, particularly targeting those who voiced dissent or participated in protests. Despite international calls for transparency and accountability, the Libyan authorities have failed to address concerns regarding human rights abuses and the stifling of civil liberties.
Despite ongoing criminal investigations targeting lower-ranking officials, higher-ranking figures and powerful armed groups have escaped scrutiny, fueling fears of impunity. The lack of accountability for human rights violations perpetuates a cycle of violence and undermines efforts to rebuild trust and stability in Libya.
In light of the domestic challenges in achieving accountability, there are growing calls for international intervention to establish a mechanism to investigate alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses in Libya. With the country’s governance fragmented and state institutions divided, international support is seen as crucial in addressing the root causes of the Derna catastrophe and preventing future tragedies.
