Libyan Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity (GNU) Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba announced Libya’s reservations on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration during the second regional review conference in Cairo. The conference, hosted by Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, focuses on migration issues in the Arab region.
Dbaiba argued that the compact, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2018, legitimizes illegal migration and confuses distinctions between refugees and migrants, as well as between countries of origin, transit, and destination.
In his dual role as Foreign Minister, Dbiaba emphasised Libya’s efforts to curb illegal migration, coordinating with regional and European countries to develop a strategic approach to this challenge.
He announced that Libya will host the Mediterranean Migration Forum on 17 July. The forum aims to discuss illegal migration and develop a cooperative initiative, focusing on national laws and policies to enhance dialogue and cooperation between Africa and Europe.
Aboul Gheit highlighted the significance of addressing migration within the Arab League framework, noting the transit role of several Arab countries and the importance of unified efforts.
The conference saw participation from the Director-General of the International Organization for Migration, the UN Under-Secretary-General, and representatives from the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, alongside international and regional organizations and delegates from Arab states.