Libya’s eastern-based authorities have introduced new restrictions on entry from four African countries as part of efforts to curb irregular migration through the North African nation toward Europe.
The government led by Osama Hamad announced that citizens of Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia will no longer be allowed to enter eastern Libya through land, sea or air entry points. The directive, however, exempts diplomats as well as professionals working in the health and education sectors.
The move comes amid growing concerns over migration flows through Libya, which remains one of the main transit routes for people seeking to reach Europe across the Mediterranean Sea.
Authorities in eastern Libya, which is allied with military commander Khalifa Haftar and controls much of the country’s east and south, said the measure is intended to address increasing migration pressures and strengthen border management.
The announcement coincided with a tragic reminder of the dangers facing migrants. In recent days, additional bodies have been recovered along the eastern Libyan coastline after a migrant boat capsized last week while attempting the perilous sea crossing.
According to the United Nations, Libya currently hosts more than 900,000 migrants and refugees, with Sudanese nationals representing the largest group. Many have fled conflict, economic hardship and instability in their home countries and view Libya as a gateway to Europe.
Despite frequent attempts to cross the Mediterranean, many migrant boats are intercepted and returned to Libya. International organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about the conditions migrants face after being returned, including detention and allegations of abuse in detention facilities.
Libya has struggled with political instability and security challenges since the 2011 uprising that led to the overthrow of longtime leader Moammar Gadhafi. The country remains divided between rival administrations, with the internationally recognised government based in Tripoli in the west and a separate authority controlling the east.
Analysts say the latest entry restrictions reflect increasing efforts by Libyan authorities to manage migration flows while the country continues to grapple with the humanitarian and security implications of being a major transit hub for migrants and refugees.
