Libya’s National Security Council has reiterated its opposition to the permanent settlement of migrants and refugees in the country, while stressing the need to protect their rights and ensure humane treatment.
In a statement on Monday, October 19, the council welcomed remarks by UN Special Representative Hanna Tetteh that the United Nations respects Libya’s sovereignty and does not facilitate the permanent settlement of migrants and refugees there.
The council reaffirmed Libya’s right to control its borders and regulate the entry, residence and employment of foreign nationals in accordance with national laws and international obligations.
It also called for international cooperation on migration to respect Libya’s sovereignty, national decision-making and the authority of its institutions.
Despite its opposition to permanent settlement, the council stressed that Libya must fulfil its international obligations, protect migrants’ dignity and rights, and ensure that foreign nationals receive humane treatment. It also said humanitarian assistance should be provided within the applicable legal frameworks.
The council called for the protection of humanitarian workers, staff of international organisations and their facilities. It urged international organisations to coordinate their activities with the relevant Libyan authorities.
It further emphasised the need for a unified national strategy to address irregular migration, alongside stronger cooperation with countries of origin, transit and destination.
According to the council, such cooperation should address the root causes of irregular migration and help develop sustainable solutions.
Libya remains an important transit country for migrants seeking to reach Europe, making migration management, border control and humanitarian protection central issues in its relations with international organisations and neighbouring countries.