Ageela Saleh, the Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives, declared on Monday Libya’s readiness to confront migrant smuggling within its capacity. He urged for a holistic approach to migration, involving countries of origin, transit, and destination, in his opening address at the African International Conference on Illegal Migration in Benghazi.
Saleh’s speech underscored the urgency of collaborative solutions to address the root causes and effects of migration. He highlighted the dire situation of migrants exploited by smugglers, pointing to the increase in dangerous crossings over the Mediterranean, which have led to numerous tragedies. Saleh extended Libya’s commitment to international initiatives aimed at reducing the risks faced by illegal migrants and expressed sympathy for the families of the victims.
The Speaker emphasized the need for international cooperation, respecting international law principles, including sovereignty and non-interference. He reaffirmed Libya’s dedication to fighting migrant smuggling and saving lives at risk.
Saleh advocated for a comprehensive understanding of the humanitarian crisis, focusing on the underlying reasons for illegal migration and the factors leading to the surge in migrant numbers. He hoped the conference’s outcomes would contribute to resolving the crisis.
The conference featured participation from Libyan parliamentarians, African Parliament President Fortune Charumbira, representatives from 40 African countries, and organizations focusing on illegal migration.
Libya’s strategic location as a bridge between Africa and Europe has made it a key transit hub for migrants heading to Europe. The country’s post-2011 political instability has intensified its role in human trafficking and smuggling networks.
The Libyan coast has become a primary departure point for perilous sea journeys to Europe, often on substandard vessels provided by smugglers, resulting in frequent sea tragedies. This situation has led to international calls for addressing the root causes of migration and ensuring the safety and rights of migrants.
Despite governance and security challenges, Libya has engaged in global discussions to develop effective solutions to the migration issue, emphasizing the necessity of addressing migration’s socioeconomic drivers and protecting human rights.
The African International Conference on Illegal Migration, held in Benghazi, represents a significant step towards regional collaboration and the creation of comprehensive strategies to address the intricate migration challenges in Africa and beyond.