The United Kingdom has allocated £1 million ($1.3 million) to support the repatriation of Libyan migrants, as part of its efforts to address migration challenges in Libya and the wider region.
The UK Home Office announced the funding aims to enhance the protection of migrants in Libya, tackling the root causes of illegal migration, and supporting the voluntary return of migrants to their countries of origin. This initiative comes in response to the increasing numbers of migrants journeying to Europe from North Africa, with the Home Office citing that over 150,000 migrants reached Italy by sea last year, many embarking from Libya.
Michael Tomlinson, the Illegal Immigration Minister, revealed the funding package after a recent visit to Libya, highlighting the UK’s commitment to collaborating with Libyan authorities to manage migration flows and protect vulnerable populations.
The announcement follows the UK’s introduction of new immigration rules intended to limit asylum claims and reduce overall migration numbers. The Home Secretary indicated plans to implement “strong measures” to manage immigration, including adjusting the salary threshold for the skilled worker visa.
In Libya, Emad El-Tarabulsi, the acting Interior Minister of the Government of National Unity, reported the repatriation of 10,069 migrants in the past year and outlined efforts to increase this number through improved border management and anti-trafficking measures. El-Tarabulsi emphasized the development of a national strategy to address migration, including the creation of employment opportunities for migrants in Libya and the issuance of official work permits.
