A group of 71 refugees from Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Syria were evacuated from Libya to Italy last week on a humanitarian flight facilitated by the Libyan and Italian governments. The operation, supported by UNHCR and the European Union, offered safe and legal relocation to vulnerable individuals fleeing conflict and hardship.
Among those on board were young people who had fled war multiple times and parents hoping to secure a future for their children. The refugees had endured prolonged displacement and insecurity in Libya, with limited access to protection and basic services.
Ehab, a 21-year-old from Eritrea, shared his experience: “I lost my parents in the war when I was seven. Life since then has been about survival. I fled to Sudan, worked to stay alive—but the war followed me. Today, I get to restart. To other refugees: have patience, you are not forgotten.”
Fokadu, 37, fled conflict in Ethiopia with his two-year-old son. “Now he has a chance to go to school, to be happy, and to dream,” he said, holding back tears.
This humanitarian flight is part of broader efforts to create safe pathways for asylum seekers trapped in Libya. UNHCR emphasised the urgent need for more such solutions to reduce reliance on dangerous sea crossings and irregular migration routes.
The agency expressed deep gratitude to the governments of Libya and Italy, as well as donors including the EU, for supporting life-saving evacuations. Each refugee on board carried a story of loss—but also of hope.
UNHCR has called on the international community to strengthen support for humanitarian corridors and ensure protection for refugees facing dire conditions in conflict zones.
This flight symbolises a chance at dignity, safety, and the right to rebuild one’s life.
