Over 100,000 migrants have been voluntarily repatriated from Libya since 2015, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) announced, underscoring the significant humanitarian needs within this crisis-affected transit country.
The IOM confirmed it has reached the milestone of 100,000 voluntary migrant repatriations from Libya as part of its Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) program. This achievement highlights the extensive humanitarian challenges in Libya, which has served as a major migratory hub and faced security crises for over a decade.
These repatriations have facilitated returns to 49 countries across Africa and Asia, including nations such as Nigeria, Mali, Bangladesh, and The Gambia.
The VHR initiative aims to offer a safe alternative for migrants who find themselves stranded in precarious conditions in Libya. According to the IOM, beneficiaries receive comprehensive support both before and after their departure, encompassing medical care, psychosocial assistance, reintegration aid, and administrative support.
In the past week alone, five additional flights were operated from Benghazi, Sebha, and Misrata to facilitate these returns. The program primarily receives funding from the European Union, supplemented by contributions from various European countries.
SL/Sf/ac/fss/abj/APA