International human rights organizations have called on Libya to review its policies toward refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, following discussions at the United Nations Human Rights Council. The calls come amid ongoing concerns about detention practices and the absence of a formal asylum system in the country.
According to a report by the European Council on Refugees and Exiles, several organizations used the session on Libya’s human rights record to press for the adoption of recommendations related to migration and refugee protection. The discussions took place during the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review outcomes for Libya in March.
Organizations including Human Rights Watch and the International Commission of Jurists welcomed Libya’s acceptance of some recommendations. However, they expressed concern over key issues that remain unresolved, particularly those affecting migrants and asylum seekers.
The groups noted that Libya did not accept recommendations calling for an end to arbitrary detention, a halt to collective expulsions, and the creation of an asylum system in line with international law. They also raised concerns about the continued criminalization of irregular migration, which they say increases the vulnerability of migrants.
In its submission to the Human Rights Council, the International Commission of Jurists stated that the lack of legal safeguards leaves migrants and refugees exposed to abuse. It called for concrete steps to improve detention conditions and ensure respect for international standards.
Human Rights Watch also criticised Libya’s stance on detention centers, noting that authorities did not support recommendations to close facilities described as abusive or to introduce meaningful reforms. The organization urged the establishment of a fair and transparent asylum system and called on Libya to take steps toward ratifying international refugee conventions.
Libya remains a major transit point for migrants seeking to reach Europe, which has increased international attention on its migration policies. Rights groups argue that without legal reforms and improved oversight, risks to migrants will continue.
