EU: Cooperation with Libya vital to control irregular migration

Magnus Brunner, the EU’s Commissioner for Migration, said that cooperating with Libya is a key element for confronting irregular migration across the Mediterranean, The Libya Observer reports on 30th November.

Brunner reportedly spoke in an interview with Times of Malta, saying that the EU has no option but to strategise with Libya to tackle irregular migration. This comes despite concerns of the Libyan Coast Guard enacting human rights violations and open firing on migrant vessels. The EU official stated that although they are willing to review these alleged human rights violations, ignoring the role that Libya plays in border control is not a pragmatic or feasible option.

Libya serves as a major transit point for sub-Saharan African migrants, who often seek passage through the central Mediterranean route to reach Europe. The central Mediterranean route is known as one of the deadliest migration corridors in the world, with multiple reports of people drowning from the high tides. In November, 42 migrants were suspected dead following a boat capsizing. Meanwhile, 18 died in a similar incident in September.

Brunner went on to discuss Malta and Libya’s agreement that helped them crack down on migration. Reportedly, Malta and Libya’s cooperation saw a 90% decrease in illegal arrivals between 2020 and 2024, displaying a direct example of how Libya can be utilised to reduce migration. Other European countries, including Italy, have struck similar migrant deals with Libya.

Despite this, there was little said surrounding making sure those intercepted by the Libyan Coast Guard are protected from having their rights violated. Migrants are often taken to detention centres that are reported to have poor living conditions, as well as widespread abuse prevalent.

Ultimately, Brunner concluded that building relations with southern Mediterranean countries such as Libya would form the backbone of the EU’s new migration policy. This is reported to include voluntary returns, repatriation and cracking down on smuggling networks. He noted that improved cooperation with Libya will bolster their efforts on irregular migration.

The Libya Observer, Maghrebi.org