Mass Grave of 65 Migrant Bodies Discovered in Libya

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has expressed profound shock and alarm following the distressing discovery of at least 65 migrants’ bodies in a mass grave in Southwest Libya. The circumstances surrounding their deaths and their nationalities remain unknown, although it is suspected that they perished while being smuggled through the desert.

An IOM spokesperson emphasised the poignant impact of each report of a missing migrant or loss of life, underscoring the anguish experienced by families seeking answers about their loved ones or grappling with the tragic reality of their loss. The spokesperson further highlighted the dire consequences of inadequate action, evident in the rising human toll and the harrowing conditions migrants endure.

This latest tragedy underscores the urgent imperative to confront the challenges of irregular migration, including through a concerted effort to combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking. The absence of regular migration pathways, which offer opportunities for legal migration, perpetuates such tragedies along this perilous route.

IOM acknowledges the ongoing investigation by Libyan authorities into these deaths and urges them, alongside UN partner agencies, to ensure a dignified recovery, identification, and repatriation of the deceased migrants’ remains. It is crucial to notify and support their families appropriately during this distressing time.

According to the Missing Migrants Project, at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances were recorded in 2023 along the Mediterranean route, which remains the deadliest migratory path, not including this recent incident.

In Libya, IOM endeavours to provide humanitarian assistance to all vulnerable individuals and enhance the capacity of actors to conduct life-saving search and rescue operations in the desert, adhering to international law. This includes training on human rights obligations and ensuring that border management operations prioritise protection to aid the most vulnerable.

Furthermore, IOM calls upon all governments and authorities along the migration route to bolster regional cooperation, safeguarding the safety and well-being of migrants irrespective of their status and throughout all stages of their journeys. Collaboration among stakeholders is imperative to mitigate the perils faced by migrants and uphold their rights and dignity.

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Source: International Organisation for Migration (IOM)