Libya’s Tripoli-based interim government has estimated that between three and four million illegal migrants are currently present within its borders, describing the situation as a serious challenge that demands urgent international cooperation. The estimate was announced after a high-level ministerial meeting with senior European officials, including EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Magnus Brunner and other ministers from Italy, Greece, and Malta.
During the meeting, held in Tripoli, Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh emphasized the need for a coordinated response to the growing migration crisis, highlighting the country’s battle against human trafficking networks and armed groups that exploit migrant flows. “These actors pose a direct threat to both local and international security,” Dbeibeh stated.
The Libyan government presented what it calls a “comprehensive national plan” to address illegal migration, which includes dismantling smuggling networks, strengthening border controls, and restoring order in areas dominated by criminal groups. The plan will be implemented by Libya’s Ministry of Interior, in partnership with several international allies, and is aligned with an upcoming national campaign aimed at restoring state authority and improving governance.
Deputy Interior Minister Emad al-Trabelsi revealed that the strategy will begin with enhanced voluntary repatriation efforts, along with the deportation of individuals who have entered Libya illegally and are involved in security or social disturbances. He stressed that effective migration management cannot be achieved without serious international collaboration.
Libya is also seeking to formalize its cooperation with the European Union through a binding agreement that would institutionalize migration governance mechanisms and help distribute the burden more fairly between the North African country and its European partners. The proposed agreement aims to ensure stability in Libya and the broader region.
The meeting included participation from a range of EU and national representatives, such as Greek Minister for Migration and Asylum Athanasios Plevris, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, Maltese Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri, the EU’s Ambassador to Libya Nicola Orlando, and EU regional director Stefano Sannino.
The Libyan government framed migration not merely as a border issue but as part of a broader security and state-building challenge. According to Prime Minister Dbeibeh, addressing illegal migration effectively requires eliminating lawless zones and expanding legitimate state authority, which in turn will enhance both border control and regional stability.
In outlining its long-term vision, Tripoli called for respect for national sovereignty, the dignity of migrants, and shared responsibility among nations. Officials argued that temporary fixes will not suffice, urging for sustainable solutions grounded in mutual respect and international solidarity.
The Ministry of Interior also presented specific operational goals, including enhancing urban and rural security, tightening border surveillance, deporting unauthorized migrants, and regularizing the legal status of workers needed in the Libyan economy, all in accordance with national legislation.
As Libya continues to navigate its complex post-conflict landscape, migration remains one of the most pressing issues facing the country, with far-reaching consequences for both Africa and Europe. The success of the proposed plans will depend heavily on international buy-in and the strength of cross-border partnerships.
