The EU will deliver new patrol boats to the Libyan Coast Guard. This comes despite reported violations against migrants in detention centers, where migrants intercepted at sea are often sent.
According to EU Observer, the boats will be used by the Libyans to intercept people at sea, and return them to Libya where most are likely to end up in such detention centres.
The European Commission said it had already delivered three rehabilitated boats, also funded by the EU. But the delivery date for the new P150’s remains unclear to the public.
The EU’s statement followed a UN human rights council report, citing a litany of crimes at detention centers that, “may amount to crimes against humanity.”
This includes “reasonable grounds to believe that acts of murder, torture, and rape against migrants form part of a systematic and widespread attack directed at this population. Further investigations are required to establish the role of all those involved, directly or indirectly, in these crimes.”
Meanwhile, the European Commission denied any responsibility for facilitating their interception and return to the centers.
“The main objective of the support is to help contribute to saving lives,” said a European Commission spokesperson, noting that detention centers need to be shut down.
Recently, the EU expressed its concerns about the human rights situation in Libya. This is especially given the ongoing violations and abuses throughout the country. In a statement, the EU called on all actors to respect human rights and international humanitarian law. It also called for stepping up efforts to ensure accountability for all human rights violations.