March 27, 2023
Cited article by Jamey Keaton and Samy Magdy, AP News
HRRC condemns the ongoing abuses and crimes against humanity in Libya. The UN report claims that EU support of Libya has aided in the ongoing human rights violations. The EU must take measures to cease its support of Libya and instead employ different means to help refugees and migrants crossing the Mediterranean. Libya also must end its numerous rights abuses and conduct a formal investigation into the crimes.
Article Summary
A United Nations Human Rights Council-backed probe has found evidence that crimes against humanity are occurring against Libyans and migrants in the country. Among these crimes include women being forced into sexual slavery. In addition, the probe found fault with the European Union (EU) supporting Libyan forces that contributed to these crimes. The investigation team also discovered evidence of “numerous cases of arbitrary detention, murder, torture, rape, enslavement, sexual enslavement and enforced disappearance.”.
Libya has become a significant transit point for refugees and migrants attempting to enter Europe. Many of these migrants experience horrible conditions as they are trafficked and smuggled across the Mediterranean. The Libyan coast guard has received significant funding and training from the EU to assist migrants. However, the coast guard is reported to be working closely with trafficking networks in the country. While the EU hasn't been accused of crimes against humanity yet, the support it provided has aided in the exploitation of those in Libya.