Libya's Ramadan Celebrations Tempered by Economic Woes

Ramadan in Libya has proceeded with family gatherings and fireworks, but many households are facing soaring prices, a recent devaluation of the dinar and shortages of goods including fuel.

Ramadan is being observed across Libya with family meals and some public festivities, but economic pressures have dampened celebrations. The western central bank recently moved to devalue the dinar, and prices for basic goods have risen. Supermarkets and petrol stations have reported shortages, and many ATMs in Tripoli were reported out of cash. The country remains divided between a Tripoli-based Government of National Unity and an eastern administration, which affects budget and spending coordination. Key facts: - The central bank in the western territory devalued the dinar by nearly 15 percent; GNU leader Abdulhamid Dbeibah said the move had "put the burden on citizens." - Prices for essentials have risen sharply, with cooking oil doubling in price and meat and poultry up by around half. - Shortages have prompted supermarket rationing, fuel scarcities at petrol stations, and limited cash availability at ATMs in Tripoli. - Political division between western and eastern administrations, alongside falling oil revenues and uncoordinated public spending, is cited by U.N. officials as worsening poverty and social pressure. Summary: Rising costs and shortages are putting strain on households during Ramadan and have been highlighted by U.N. officials as increasing poverty and social pressure. Political fragmentation and fiscal challenges, including declining oil revenues and parallel state institutions, are named as underlying factors. Undetermined at this time.