UNITED NATIONS, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations is deeply concerned by Thursday's protests against its agencies in the Libyan capital of Tripoli, said a UN spokesperson on Friday.
"We are deeply concerned by the violent protests that took place yesterday outside the UNHCR (UN High Commissioner for Refugees) and UNSMIL (UN Support Mission in Libya) headquarters in Tripoli," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "The UN strongly condemns any attack or threat against its personnel or premises."
Hundreds of Libyan protesters on Thursday shut down the UNHCR office in Tripoli, driven by concerns over what they described as the "settlement" of undocumented migrants inside the country.
The world body attributed the protests to misinformation and disinformation.
"We are concerned by the spread of misinformation and disinformation regarding the work of the United Nations in Libya. We want to clarify that UNHCR works closely with the Libyan authorities to identify and support solutions outside of Libya for people fleeing war and persecution, and in need of international protection, including solutions in third countries, such as resettlement, and voluntary returns, when feasible," said Dujarric.
The United Nations appreciates the support of the Libyan authorities in maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of protesters and UN personnel and facilities, said the spokesperson.
Libya remains a key transit hub for migrants seeking to reach Europe across the Mediterranean, taking advantage of its geographic location and extensive land and sea borders. ■
