Greece raises concern over migrant numbers in Libya

The Migration Minister  in Greece, Thanos Plevris, has said that around 550,000 migrants and refugees are currently in Libya awaiting opportunities to cross the Mediterranean towards Europe, as southern European states intensify efforts to curb irregular migration routes, according to the Libya Gazette on May 18th.

Athens said it is working closely with Frontex and Libyan authorities to monitor boats and combat human trafficking networks operating along Libya’s coastline, amid growing concern over increased migration flows through the central Mediterranean corridor.

The remarks come as European governments continue expanding coordination with Libya on migration control, despite ongoing criticism from human rights groups over conditions facing migrants and refugees intercepted and returned to Libyan territory.

Libya Gazette