Libya's increasingly xenophobic and securitised environment
New laws severely affecting migration in Libya and renewed opposition to Turkish military presence in the country reflect an increasingly xenophobic and securitised environment likely to affect foreign relations.
Migration across the Mediterranean is on the rise. Over the last seven months, 89,158 undocumented migrants have made their way to Italy, 33.7% of them coming from Libya. Anti-immigrant sentiment in Tunisia and political turmoil in sub-Saharan countries, particularly Sudan, have led to an uptick of migratory influx into Libya.
In August, the GNU announced it reached an agreement with Tunis to streamline border control procedures to stem irregular border crossings around Ras Jedir - a deal welcomed by Italy’s foreign minister. Whether it is in western or eastern Libya, authorities have strictly rejected any resettlement scheme of migrants in the country, underscoring an atmosphere deeply unwelcoming of immigrants and concerns regarding migration’s impact on security and livelihoods.
Read next
Libya's Interior Minister blames public and municipal leaders for security failures
Interior Minister Emad al-Trabelsi lambasted armed groups, fuel smuggling, government mismanagement, and the use of Libya as a hub for smugglers. However, he did not convey confidence in the Interior Ministry's ability to meet Libya's ongoing security challenges.
Sudan's conflict fuels humanitarian crisis in Africa and beyond
The situation could deteriorate even further given that meeting the basic needs of refugees has become increasingly difficult due to a lack of funding –with serious implications for migration and security dynamics in Africa and beyond.
Libya-Tunisia border crisis risks sparking wider conflict
The situation at the Ras Ajdir border crossing remains western Libya’s most dangerous fault line with serious risks of escalating.
Who will win the struggle for leadership at Libya’s Ministry of Oil & Gas?
Earlier this month, Mohamed Aoun was said to be reinstated as Minister of Oil & Gas. However, he has been unable to assume his duties as the acting O&G Minister Khalifa Abdulsadek continues to occupy his seat.