In a major humanitarian operation, Libya is set to repatriate 263 Bangladeshi migrants, currently held at the Ainjera detention center in Tripoli, on 5 December.
This move is part of a larger coordinated effort involving the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, its Embassy in Tripoli, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Mohammad Rafiqul Alam, Spokesman for the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, provided insights into this operation at a briefing. He underscored the joint efforts of the Bangladeshi government, and international bodies to ensure a safe and dignified return for these migrants.
This repatriation is a continuation of a series of such efforts, following the successful return of 253 Bangladeshi nationals from Libya on 28 & 30 November, via Buraq Air chartered flights.
In a supportive gesture, the IOM is providing funding to each migrant, along with essential food supplies, to aid in their transition.
Alam highlighted the commitment of the Ministry to persist in these repatriation efforts, particularly focusing on illegal migrants in Libya. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Bangladeshi government to address the plight of its citizens who find themselves in challenging situations abroad, often without proper documentation.
Libya has been a focal point for migration, particularly since the 2011 uprising. The country has since faced significant challenges, including political instability and conflict, which have contributed to a complex migration scenario. Migrants, often seeking better opportunities or fleeing hardships in their home countries, find themselves caught in difficult circumstances in Libya.
This repatriation effort is indicative of the collaborative work required to address the challenges of migration in such contexts. It not only emphasizes Libya’s role in supporting humanitarian causes but also highlights the necessity of international cooperation to safeguard the rights and well-being of migrants. These operations serve as a reminder of the ongoing global challenge of managing migration humanely and effectively.