Qatar denies migrant resettlement claims

The Qatari Embassy in Libya has strongly rejected allegations accusing Doha of supporting projects aimed at resettling migrants in Libya or altering the country’s demographic composition, describing the claims as entirely false and without factual basis.

In a statement, the embassy expressed surprise at what it called unfounded accusations linking Qatar to migrant settlement initiatives in Libya, stressing that such allegations do not reflect any official policy or position of the Qatari government.

The embassy reaffirmed Qatar’s full respect for Libya’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence, underscoring its consistent support for the Libyan people’s right to determine their national affairs through their legitimate institutions and according to their own free will.

It also called on media outlets and social media users to exercise caution, verify information through official channels and avoid spreading rumours or misleading reports that could damage the longstanding relations between Libya and Qatar.

The statement comes as debate intensifies in Libya over migration policies and reports circulating on social media regarding the possible settlement of migrants inside the country.

Separately, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) also rejected claims that the UN refugee agency is implementing programmes to resettle migrants in Libya.

UNSMIL said the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) does not operate any migrant resettlement programmes in Libya and described all allegations suggesting otherwise as “entirely false”.

The mission said it works with the Libyan authorities in full respect of Libya’s sovereignty to pursue solutions for migrants outside Libya, including evacuation to third countries and voluntary return programmes.

UNSMIL also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation surrounding migration issues and condemned any incitement to violence or attacks targeting United Nations personnel, offices or facilities, while reaffirming the right of Libyans to engage in peaceful protest.