Libya’s Interior Minister, Emad Trabelsi, has urged the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) to assist in repatriating irregular migrants. His request comes as Libya faces growing challenges in managing migration flows.
Trabelsi made this appeal during a meeting with UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Libya, Hanna Tetteh, in Tripoli on Wednesday. According to a ministry statement, discussions focused on Libya’s security situation, ongoing operations, and efforts to restore stability.
Migration Puts Libya Under Pressure
During the meeting, Trabelsi stressed that irregular migration is putting a heavy strain on Libya and Mediterranean countries. He warned that the increasing number of migrants is overwhelming Libya’s resources and security forces. To address this, he called on the UN to support a voluntary return program. He also reiterated that Libya is a transit country, not a final destination for most migrants.
Libya has long been a key departure point for those attempting to reach Europe. As the crisis worsens, authorities say they lack the capacity to handle the situation alone.
Migrants Risk Their Lives Crossing the Sahara
Trabelsi estimates that over 3 million migrants are currently in Libya. Each month, 90,000 to 120,000 more enter the country through dangerous desert routes. Many face extreme heat, human traffickers, and violence.
To manage this, Libya has launched a voluntary return program. This effort complements a similar initiative run by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Since 2015, the IOM has helped 80,000 migrants return home, according to UN figures.
Libya Urges Global Cooperation on Migration
Libyan authorities insist the country “cannot continue” to host migrants bound for Europe. They report that 80/percent of foreigners in Libya lack valid immigration documents.
Meanwhile, European nations are pressing Libya to tighten border controls. However, Libyan officials argue that migration is a shared responsibility. They are urging the UN, the African Union, and European governments to take stronger action. This includes improving border security, expanding repatriation programs, and providing humanitarian support.