Libya’s Acting Interior Minister of the Government of National Unity (GNU), Emad Al-Trabelsi, said that Libya currently hosts over 3 million irregular migrants, placing a significant burden on its resources.
He addressed key migration issues at the Trans-Mediterranean Migration Forum. During the press conference, Al-Trabelsi announced that Libya has deported 10,000 migrants to their home countries with coordination from Tunisia and Italy. He emphasised the country’s commitment to voluntary repatriation policies.
Al-Trabelsi warned that Libya would cease cooperation with any international organisation that does not operate seriously or adhere to its official duties within the country. He noted that between 90,000 to 120,000 migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa enter Libya annually.
The minister highlighted that Libya has spent more than $330 million to combat the irregular migration crisis, yet has only received $30 million in aid from the European Union. This discrepancy underscores the heavy financial strain Libya faces.
Al-Trabelsi also pointed out that the unprecedented influx of irregular migrants has led to a rise in crime, including drug-related offences and theft. He mentioned that Italy and Malta have expressed their intention to hold the next forum in Libya to enhance cooperation and coordination on migration issues.
Conversely, Al-Trabelsi criticised other European countries for their lack of attention to this critical issue. He stressed that irregular migration should be a central concern and called for more substantial support from European partners. Al-Trabelsi argued that it is essential to support origin and transit countries to curb the phenomenon of irregular migration.
On Tuesday, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela stated that Libya is a victim of irregular migration due to the large numbers of migrants arriving from various countries.
Abela said, “Unless we support Libya with tangible actions and full backing, the problem will end up on the shores of the European Union. This is a message I have conveyed to the EU and brought back to you.”
He made these remarks during a joint press conference with Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba, Prime Minister of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The Maltese Prime Minister added that his country would be a voice on behalf of Libya in discussions within the European Union.
“My idea is to invest in the countries that are sources of migration. I believe this is the best approach. We need to provide opportunities and invest in their countries so that people do not feel compelled to migrate elsewhere,” he concluded.
