Libya must address migration challenges through law, not collective punishment
The mayor of Misurata, Mahmoud Al-Suqutri, has condemned recent assaults against refugees and irregular migrants, stressing that such incidents are unlawful and incompatible with the values of Libyan society.
Al-Suqutri rejected suggestions of any plan to resettle refugees or migrants in Libya, clarifying that no such policy exists. He noted that recent public demonstrations reflected concerns within communities but should not be interpreted as an endorsement of forced resettlement.
He added that responsibility for the entry of refugees and irregular migrants lies with the authorities mandated to secure the country’s southern borders. Coastal cities such as Misurata, he said, continue to face additional pressures without being directly responsible for the issue.
The mayor also underlined that violence and collective punishment are unacceptable, and that any violations must be addressed through legal means. He warned that municipal involvement in unauthorised demonstrations undermines institutional responsibility, particularly as the council had already designated a member to liaise with national authorities on migration matters.
Friday’s demonstrations in Tripoli and Misurata drew attention to the challenges posed by irregular migration and community concerns over security. Al-Suqutri reiterated that the municipality is working to respond to residents’ complaints, while reaffirming that Misurata rejects any plans for refugee resettlement.