Libya Closes 10 NGOs for Unauthorised Migrant Aid

Security Crackdown on International Organizations

Libya’s Internal Security Agency has ordered the closure of 10 international organizations, including the International Relief Organisation, accusing them of operating unauthorized migrant assistance programs.

The organizations allegedly provided financial aid, food supplies, cleaning materials, clothing, and medicine to migrants through projects coordinated with the UNHCR, but without approval from Libyan authorities.

Allegations of Irregular Operations

Security officials claim these NGOs were facilitating the settlement of irregular migrants in Libya through their humanitarian programs, operating outside the country’s legal frameworks. The government maintains these activities were conducted without proper authorization.

While the International Relief Organisation was specifically named, the statement didn’t disclose the other affected organizations or clarify whether the closures are temporary or permanent.

Libya’s Migration Control Efforts

This crackdown aligns with Libya’s intensified efforts to regulate migration-related activities, including recent security agreements with international partners like Italy to strengthen migration management.

As a major transit point for migrants heading to Europe, Libya hosts numerous international organizations running humanitarian programs for vulnerable migrant populations.

This article summarizes an original report. Read the full story at Libyan Express.