The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all migrants and refugees are treated with dignity and humanity. In a statement delivered at the United Nations Security Council meeting on the situation in Libya, Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, outlined the UK’s position on the pressing issue of irregular migration across Africa and the Mediterranean.
Three Key Points Highlighted by the UK
First, the UK emphasized its commitment to working with member states and UN agencies to tackle the root causes of irregular migration and to combat human trafficking and people smuggling. Eckersley stated that the UK is supporting the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Libya, with funding directed towards providing returns and reintegration assistance for vulnerable migrants. Additionally, the UK is collaborating with the Libyan authorities through joint efforts by the UK National Crime Agency and Libyan law enforcement to prosecute leaders of organized criminal gangs involved in people smuggling.
Second, the UK expressed deep concern over the human rights situation faced by migrants in Libya, as detailed in the latest report by the UN Secretary General on the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2698. The report documented severe human rights violations, including arbitrary detention, torture, and mistreatment of migrants, as well as the discovery of migrant mass graves in Al-Shuwairf and other areas. Eckersley emphasized, “All migrants and refugees must be treated with humanity and dignity, and their rights must be fully respected.
Third, the UK acknowledged the efforts made by the Libyan authorities in hosting large numbers of migrants and refugees, including those fleeing violence from Sudan. The UK has provided £2 million in assistance to support up to 150,000 Sudanese refugees in Libya. However, Eckersley also urged the Libyan authorities to work with the UN and humanitarian organizations to improve conditions in migrant detention centres and ensure accountability for any human rights abuses. He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to collaborating closely with Libya to address these challenges.
Addressing the Root Causes of Migration
In his closing remarks, Eckersley highlighted the importance of finding a political solution in Libya, noting that such a resolution would help address the underlying drivers of irregular migration and bring peace and stability to the country. The UK is committed to countering trafficking and people smuggling, and supporting vulnerable migrants,” he said. The UK remains dedicated to supporting a Libyan-led and owned political process under the auspices of the United Nations.
The UK’s appeal comes amid ongoing discussions about the renewal of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) mandate, with Eckersley emphasizing the UK’s willingness to work with all Council members to ensure effective support for the country.
The UK’s statement at the Security Council meeting reiterates the need for a collaborative international approach to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Libya, ensuring the safety and dignity of all migrants and refugees while addressing the root causes of irregular migration in the region.
