The European Union has allocated an additional €25 million ($29 million) to enhance migration cooperation in eastern Libya, focusing on border management, search-and-rescue, and anti-smuggling efforts. This funding signifies deepening EU engagement with the region controlled by military commander Khalifa Haftar as Brussels aims to reduce irregular migration across the Mediterranean.
The EU's increased financial and operational engagement with eastern Libya underscores its commitment to managing migration flows, potentially impacting regional stability and the humanitarian situation for migrants transiting through the country.
The European Union has committed an additional €25 million ($29 million) to bolster migration cooperation in eastern Libya, a move detailed in a letter from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. This funding is earmarked for enhancing border management, search-and-rescue operations, and efforts to combat smuggling activities within the region. The EU's increased engagement with eastern Libya, controlled by military commander Khalifa Haftar, reflects a broader strategy to curb irregular migration across the Mediterranean Sea.
Libya has served as a critical transit point for migrants seeking to reach Europe since the 2011 uprising. While the EU officially recognizes the government in Tripoli, it has intensified its outreach to eastern Libyan authorities over the past year, coinciding with an increase in migrant departures from areas under Haftar's control. This cooperation follows the EU's July announcement to establish a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Benghazi, further solidifying ties with the eastern administration.
Von der Leyen highlighted Libya as the primary departure country for illegal crossings into the EU and indicated that an upcoming meeting would sustain the cooperation. The EU, in conjunction with the International Organization for Migration, is also facilitating voluntary returns for migrants to their home countries, with a focus on reducing arrivals in Libya intended solely for illegal transit to the EU.
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