To Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the UN Human Rights Council Joint NGO letter: The Human Rights Council should establish the mandate of an Independent Expert on Libya International Advocacy Program, United…

Unique and deep historical, economic, and social ties exist between the Libyan and Tunisian people. The relationship Libyans have with Tunisia has evolved with time, occasionally in response to political developments. Since the year 2000, Tunisia has become an important destination for Libyan tourists and Libyans seeking services or medical treatment. The February 17 uprising in Libya and the subsequent conflict between the Gaddafi regime brigades and the revolutionary forces, prompted a large number of Libyan families to temporarily take refuge in Tunisia, fleeing the fighting and seeking a stable living situation. At the time, this temporary migration seemed like an opportunity for Tunisians to highlight their warm reception of Libyan immigrants. Most cities in southern Tunisia hospitably hosted the refugees in a clear display of sympathy, and full support for the Libyan revolution.