High Council of State warns against migrant resettlement schemes

The High Council of State has reaffirmed its categorical opposition to any initiatives, agreements or arrangements that could lead, directly or indirectly, to the settlement or resettlement of migrants within Libyan territory.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the council warned against the imposition of any demographic reality that could affect the identity and social character of Libyan society or pose risks to national sovereignty, national security, social stability and the country’s demographic composition.

The council stressed that managing migration-related challenges and addressing their consequences remain among the sovereign responsibilities of the Libyan state. It added that any policies or measures concerning the issue must be based on respect for Libya’s sovereignty and full adherence to the country’s existing laws and regulations.

The statement also called on national institutions and international partners to support Libya’s efforts to combat illegal migration, migrant smuggling networks and human trafficking.

Reiterating its position, the council said Libya’s security, stability, social cohesion and national identity constitute “firm principles that cannot be compromised or diminished under any circumstances or justification”.

The statement comes amid continuing discussions over migration management in the Mediterranean region and growing concerns within Libya regarding the implications of irregular migration on the country’s security, demographic balance and public services.