The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) recently hosted the Global Migration Film Festival in Tripoli, Libya, aiming to shine a light on crucial migration stories and foster understanding through the power of film. This event is part of IOM’s broader efforts to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. This is in line with its mission as the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration, with a presence in 171 countries.
The festival featured films and documentaries that capture both the challenges and contributions of migrants to their new communities. It uses storytelling as a means to foster greater empathy and understanding towards migrants and their experiences. The goal is to stimulate discussion on migration. This is one of the most significant phenomena of our time, and to use cinema as an educational tool to influence perceptions and attitudes towards migrants.
In addition to hosting events like the film festival, IOM is also involved in a wide range of activities in Libya and other countries, focusing on migration management, crisis response, international cooperation and partnerships, and supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These activities are aimed at reducing global inequalities, promoting gender equality, countering xenophobia, and addressing the impacts of migration on the environment and climate change.
Notably, IOM has reported a 50% increase in the movement of migrants from Niger to Libya since December, following the Niger military council’s decision to repeal laws that criminalised human smuggling.
This escalation in the number of irregular migrants heading to the border areas of Libya and Algeria coincides with Niger’s military taking actions in response to European sanctions imposed after the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26th, 2023.
In a recent meeting, Osama Hammad, Prime Minister of the Libyan Parliament-designated government, discussed migration and border security with Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Sangare, and the Special Envoy to the President of Niger. The dialogue focused on mutual concerns and challenges, particularly regarding migration and border security enhancement.
