Libya Steps Up Repatriation of Sub-Saharan Migrants Amid Rising European Pressure

Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi

Libyan authorities have announced plans to intensify the return of irregular migrants, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, warning against long-term settlement in the country as Europe increases measures to curb arrivals.

Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi, speaking at a press briefing in Tripoli with foreign diplomats, highlighted that Libya has received limited support relative to its ongoing commitments to manage migration flows. “We cannot continue to host migrants indefinitely, particularly families, without risking permanent settlement,” he stated.

Libya remains a major departure point for migrants attempting the perilous journey across the Mediterranean to Europe, with Italy located roughly 300 kilometres to the north. Trabelsi emphasized that migrants intercepted at sea will not be allowed to remain on Libyan soil.

The European Union has invested approximately €465 million between 2015 and 2021 in migration-related programs in Libya, with a further €65 million earmarked for protection and border management through 2027. Despite this, Libya continues to face challenges including political division, instability, and human trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable populations.

A national repatriation initiative launched in October aims to return thousands of migrants each month, prioritizing women, children, and the elderly. Trabelsi confirmed plans for two repatriation flights per week, targeting countries such as Chad, Mali, and Somalia.

The International Organization for Migration reports that about 25,000 migrants have been intercepted and returned to Libya this year alone, including over 2,000 women and nearly 1,000 children.

Meanwhile, Sudanese refugees fleeing ongoing conflict are being treated differently. Trabelsi noted that up to 700,000 Sudanese arrivals since April 2023 are granted access to healthcare and education, reflecting special government provisions.

EU Ambassador Nicola Orlando reiterated Europe’s position, stating that the continent has no intention of settling migrants in Libya and emphasized the importance of facilitating voluntary returns to migrants’ home countries.