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Palestinians Seek Job Opportunities In Libya Following Uprising
By Saleh JadallahPalestinians in the blockaded Gaza Strip have flocked to the headquarters of the workers’ syndicate to register for possible jobs in Libya, after a revolution ended 42 years of Muammar Gaddafi’s rule.
“The opportunity for Palestinians to work in Libya is being offered in coordination with Libyan authorities and the workers’ union here,” an official said.
Many unemployed Gazans hope they will find jobs and a better life in Libya, leaving the impoverished Gaza Strip, where unemployment is estimated by the United Nations at 45 per cent.
Many unemployed Gazans hope they will find jobs and a better life in Libya, leaving the impoverished Gaza Strip, where unemployment is estimated by the United Nations at 45 per cent.
Abed-Al-Rahman Yagi, who graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, registered his name, looking forward to building a bright future as he believes large numbers of workers will be needed to help rebuild Libya.
“I come here to register my name. I am bored with the tough economy here.
“It is very difficult to remain without jobs for more than six years,” he said.
The harsh conditions for Palestinian workers intensified in 2000 after the second Palestinian Intifada (uprising) erupted against Israel, which prevented thousands of Palestinian workers from continuing their jobs inside the occupied territories.
Since then, they remain jobless, mainly depending on food supplies and aid distributed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and other charitable organisations.
Abu Khaled Al-Far, who previously worked as a builder inside Israel, also came to the union office. Since 2000, he has only made a small living through building work found inside the narrow enclave.
Furthermore, he said, his current job did not meet the needs of his family of five sons and three daughters.
“No one likes to leave his country, but we are forced to do so. We have to continue our lives by all means,” said Abu Khaled.
