DAMASCO (SIRIA) (ITALPRESS)- Emad Al-Trabelsi, the Interior Minister of Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU) and head of the High Committee for Monitoring Illegal Immigration and Border Security, met with Ines Tchouma, the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Resident Coordinator, and Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya, to discuss the pressing issue of illegal immigration. The meeting focused on the multifaceted impacts of illegal immigration on Libya, including its security, economic, and social repercussions.
The discussion, which also addressed the difficulties faced by migrants in Libya, was attended by representatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and UNICEF.
A key point of concern raised by Tchouma was the restrictions placed on humanitarian organizations working with migrants and refugees. She urged the Libyan government to engage in dialogue to address these restrictions and ensure that these organizations can operate safely and in accordance with Libyan law.
The meeting also reviewed the Interior Ministry’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal immigration, particularly the importance of strengthening voluntary return programmes for illegal migrants or facilitating their resettlement in third countries. These measures are seen as crucial in addressing the migration challenges facing Libya.
The discussion comes amid growing public discontent in Libya over the rising number of migrants and fears about their permanent settlement in the country. The UN mission expressed alarm over what it described as a “misinformation campaign” in Libya, which has contributed to escalating tensions and hate speech against refugees and migrants.
Al-Trabelsi also highlighted the Interior Ministry’s readiness to establish a specialized security force to protect Libya’s southern borders, following an emergency meeting of the High Committee on Illegal Immigration and Border Security.
Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) facilitated the repatriation of 960 Nigerian migrants from Libya in the first three months of 2025. This operation, in collaboration with IOM Nigeria and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, underscores ongoing efforts to address irregular migration. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, cautioned against the dangers of irregular migration routes through Libya, urging Nigerian citizens to seek legal and regulated migration options. Over the past few years, IOM has assisted in the repatriation of more than 15,000 stranded Nigerians from Libya and neighboring countries.
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS)
