The dangerous path through Libya

Libya is a transit hub for irregular migrants trying to reach Europe, including Ethiopians and Eritreans. Since the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the country has descended into violent chaos, with no authority in full control. Libya continues to be unstable, dangerous and de facto lawless. Migrants in Libya are extremely vulnerable to large smuggling networks and armed gangs who exploit their desperation.

Migrants who have been in Libya tell stories of extreme violence, extortion, indefinite detention and slave labour. Many, including Ethiopian and Eritrean migrants, say they have witnessed the killing of another migrant in Libya and have either been the victim of or witness to physical harm.

Many Ethiopian and Eritrean migrants in Libya end up in detention centers for long periods of time. While incarcerated, many experience frequent and brutal violence at the hands of fellow detainees and guards. Forced labour is commonplace and detainees are given little food and medical care.

The EU is providing training to the Libyan coastguard to enable the country to intercept migrants that set off from Libya’s coast with the help of people smugglers. Migrants that are caught by the coastguard in Libyan waters are sent back to Libya. The country has also barred NGO rescue operations from entering a stretch of water off its coast, meaning that rescue operations close to Libya have been suspended.