Key Updates
• Thousands of migrants expelled from Libya: In early June, authorities in Eastern Libya carried out the expulsion of thousands of migrants, predominantly Egyptians. It is reported that at least 4,000 individuals were forced to cross the borders into Egypt. Local and international NGOs have voiced their concerns regarding the treatment of these individuals, including deprivation of food and water when crossing into Egypt in the heat of the day.
• Continued EU support to Tunisia: The EU has continued to engage in talks about support to Tunisia. This quarter saw multiple visits from heads of government and other key political leaders. In a trilateral visit alongside the Italian and Dutch Prime Ministers, the President of the European Commission announced the EU’s preparedness to provide more than 1 billion euros in aid. An additional 100 million euros could be provided for anti-smuggling activities and border management.
• Surge in anti-migrant violence in Sfax, Tunisia: Since the last quarter, Sfax has witnessed an upsurge in public xenophobia and violence against sub–Saharan African individuals. One incident involved an attack on a house inhabited by sub-Saharan African individuals, resulting in the death of one migrant.
Additionally, altercations escalated between sub-Saharan African nationals and local residents following protests against the presence of irregular migrants in Sfax.
• One year passes since Melilla incident: this quarter saw the one-year mark since the deadly incident that unfolded in Melilla on 24 June 2022. To this day, the fate of 76 people remains unknown, leaving their families without any answers. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have criticized the responses by the Spanish and Moroccan governments, deeming them inadequate. In June, five Spanish NGOs filed a complaint hoping to initiate a trial and seek justice for the victims.
• Boat departing from Eastern Libya ends in tragedy at Pylos, Greece: On 9 June, an overcrowded ship embarked from Libya with hundreds of individuals aboard, aiming to reach Italy. On June 14, the ship sank off the coast of Greece. The confirmed death toll has surpassed 80 people, while around 500 individuals are still missing and presumed dead. The incident occurred amidst a noticeable increase in departures from eastern Libya, which began in late 2022.