Libya closes 10 NGOs for unauthorised migrant aid​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Libya’s Internal Security Agency has shut down 10 international organisations operating in the country, including the International Relief Organisation, accusing them of “settling illegal immigrants” without proper authorisation.

According to an official announcement monitored by the Libyan Express, these organisations were providing financial aid, food supplies, sanitary materials, clothing, and medicine to migrants through projects coordinated with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The security agency claims these activities were conducted without knowledge or formal authorisation from Libyan governmental authorities.

Libyan officials allege the organisations facilitated the settlement of irregular migrants through their humanitarian assistance programmes, operating outside required legal frameworks.

The statement did not specify which organisations besides the International Relief Organisation were affected, nor did it clarify whether the closures are temporary or permanent.

This crackdown comes amid Libya’s broader efforts to tighten control over migration-related activities within its borders, including recent agreements with international partners such as Italy to enhance migration management security measures.

Libya has long served as a key transit country for migrants attempting to reach Europe, with numerous international organisations operating humanitarian programmes to address the needs of vulnerable migrant populations in the country.