Libya Remains Most Dangerous Route for Migrants, Says IOM Chief

Libya Remains Most Dangerous Route for Migrants, Says IOM Chief
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Libya has become the most perilous North African country for migrants, who face widespread kidnappings, abuse, and exploitation by smugglers and militias, the head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, told AFP.

Pope said most migrants who die crossing the Mediterranean depart from Libya, describing the route as especially dangerous. Even before attempting the journey, many migrants in Libya suffer detention, extortion, and physical assault at the hands of non-state groups.

She noted that Libya’s instability since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted Muammar Qaddafi has allowed human traffickers to operate freely. Authorities estimate that up to four million irregular migrants are currently in the country, many of them from Africa and Asia.
The situation has worsened since the conflict erupted in Sudan in 2023, displacing millions.

UNHCR figures show that more than 357,000 Sudanese refugees have entered Libya since April last year. Pope also warned that funding cuts have severely reduced the UN’s ability to provide humanitarian support. She added that Tunisia, another key departure point, is struggling with limited resources despite a 2023 EU agreement aimed at curbing departures.