Libya Closes 10 NGOs for Unauthorised Migrant Aid
Libya’s Internal Security Agency has ordered the closure of 10 international organizations, including the International Relief Organisation, for allegedly facilitating “illegal immigrant settlement” without government approval.
Unauthorized Humanitarian Operations
According to security officials, these NGOs were providing comprehensive aid packages – including financial support, food, hygiene products, clothing, and medical supplies – to migrants through programs coordinated with UNHCR. However, authorities claim these operations were conducted without proper authorization from Libyan government agencies.
Allegations of Irregular Migration Facilitation
The security agency asserts that these humanitarian programs were effectively encouraging and enabling irregular migration by providing settlement assistance outside Libya’s legal framework. Officials emphasized that all migration-related activities must comply with national regulations.
Unanswered Questions
The government statement left several key questions unresolved:
- The complete list of affected organizations beyond the International Relief Organisation
- Whether the closures are temporary suspensions or permanent revocations
- Specific legal violations beyond operating without authorization
Broader Migration Control Efforts
This crackdown aligns with Libya’s recent migration policy tightening, including:
- Enhanced border security measures
- Bilateral agreements with European nations like Italy
- Increased oversight of international organizations
As a major migration hub for Africa-to-Europe routes, Libya hosts numerous international humanitarian groups working with vulnerable migrant populations. This development signals potentially stricter government control over such operations moving forward.
This article summarizes an original report from Libyan Express. Read the full story at the source.