Libya
Problem statement
In the course of the Libyan revolution in 2011, the Gaddafi regime lost control over large parts of its conventional weapons arsenal. As a result, weapons storage sites were accessible to opposition fighters, civilians and soldiers alike. Since the end of the fighting, central control over the weapons arsenal has not been re-established and the spread and trafficking of arms affects the conflict and security situation not only in Libya but also in neighbouring regions. In addition, conventional weapons found their way into civilian homes, leading to widespread private possession of conventional weapons within the Libyan society. Moreover, explosive remnants of war (ERW) contaminate areas surrounding weapons and ammunition storage areas, farmland and public spaces.
There is still an urgent and constant need for more enhanced and central control of conventional weapons and ammunition throughout Libya. In order to provide this control effectively, Libyan government institutions have identified a need for knowledge transfer, enhanced equipment and technical capacities.
What we do
Capacity Building
ITF officially started with the implementation of the capacity building project in Libya in January 2014, with the project »Capacity Support of Libyan Center for Mine Action and Remnants of War (Lib MAC) in Securing and Eliminating Conventional Weapons in Libya«.
The project focuses on capacity building of Lib MAC personnel (operations section), while giving importance to the risk education sector as well. During 2019, Lib MAC OPS Section opened 84 tasks mostly for non-technical survey activities, risk education and EOD operations performed by international and local NGOs, Military Engineers and Police in Tripoli, Sirt and Benghazi. Lib MAC personnel conducted 52 QA/QC missions and 23 accreditation procedures.
By issuing certificates, Lib MAC also continued its involvement and enabled further reconstruction of Sirte. During 2020, main focus was given on non-technical survey activities on south outskirts of Tripoli.
On behalf of the donor, ITF regularly executed salary payments for 24 Lib MAC employees in 2019 despite cash insolvency in Libya, and all costs related to the daily functioning of Lib MAC.
For more information on ITF’s past activities in Libya, we welcome you to consult our Annual Reports.