Amnesty International accused the EU of complicity in human rights abuses following intensified crackdowns on migrants in Libya. The organization cited mass arrests, detentions, and expulsions, including nationals from Sudan, without due process.
The report highlights significant human rights concerns regarding the treatment of migrants in Libya and raises questions about the ethical and legal implications of the EU's migration control policies and partnerships.
Amnesty International has accused the European Union of complicity in human rights abuses following an intensified crackdown on migrants and refugees in Libya. The organization reported mass arrests, detentions, forced evictions, and expulsions in both eastern and western Libya over the last month, affecting individuals including those from war-torn Sudan. These actions allegedly occurred without migrants being given the chance to seek asylum or challenge their deportation.
Libya has served as a critical transit point for individuals attempting to reach Europe since the 2011 uprising. The EU and its member states have a history of supporting and training the Libyan coastguard, and have recently increased engagement with authorities in eastern Libya, despite formally recognizing only the Tripoli-based government. Amnesty stated that this extended cooperation with eastern factions, known for alleged abuses, demonstrates a disregard for international law and human dignity.
Diana Elahawy, Amnesty's deputy regional director, asserted that the EU's financial backing of migration control in Libya already makes it complicit in severe violations. She criticized the extension of cooperation to armed groups with records of impunity.
Representatives from the European Commission and the Libyan governments in Tripoli and the east did not immediately respond to requests for comment. EU officials have defended their engagement with Libya, framing it as essential for saving lives at sea and disrupting smuggling operations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the necessity of continued EU engagement, citing an increase in irregular crossings towards Greece. EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner had previously traveled to eastern Libya for discussions but was expelled shortly after arrival.