Europe, Malta (Commonwealth Union) – Minister for Home Affairs, Security, and Employment Byron Camilleri met with Libyan Minister for Home Affairs Emad Trabelsi to engage in discussions to specific actions for continued cooperation between Malta and Libya in the area of security. They also explored how Malta can further support the development of Libyan law enforcement capabilities.
This week, Minister Byron Camilleri, along with Prime Minister Robert Abela, attended the Trans-Mediterranean Migration Forum in Tripoli, Libya.
The Forum, initiated by Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, aims to address the critical issue of irregular migration, influenced by factors such as poverty, economic downturns, international economic policies, and security and political strategies concerning Southern Mediterranean nations.
During the Forum, the organizers highlighted the difficulties faced by African countries, including the loss of human resources and young talent. They underscored the need for a comprehensive approach, establishing a strategic cooperation framework between African and European countries that benefits all parties involved in migration, with a strong emphasis on protecting the human rights and dignity of migrants.
The issue of illegal boat crossings has been a contentious issue across Europe with many people smuggled by gangs often putting human life at risk while at sea. Disturbing reports of some illegal migrants being used for organ harvesting, particularly kidneys from African migrants ending up in Egypt have also emerged in the past few years.
The minister stressed that prevention is the key to achieving real and lasting results and preventing further deaths at sea. Specifically, the Minister highlighted the importance of intensifying efforts against migrant smugglers and significantly increasing the rate of returns to send a clear message that irregular migration is not a feasible option.
Security and irregular migration discussed in Libya, a country that has become a key transit point for illegal immigration worldwide. The global approach to migration has emphasized the need to combat irregular migration, not only in Libya but also in other regions affected by this phenomenon. Efforts to address the issue have included enhancing border security, increasing cooperation between countries, and implementing policies aimed at addressing the root causes of migration. Despite these efforts, irregular migration continues to pose significant challenges for countries around the world, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackle this complex issue.
