On June 4, 2026, hundreds of Libyans congregated outside the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) office in Tripoli to voice their opposition to the presence of undocumented migrants in the nation. The protesters demanded the closure of the UNHCR office, alleging that the agency is facilitating the settlement of migrants in Libya.

During the rally, demonstrators chanted slogans, including “Libya belongs to Libyans.” They carried placards that conveyed messages like “Our love for our country is not racism” and “Libya is not the world’s garbage bin.” The protests underscore a growing sentiment within segments of the Libyan population regarding the implications of migration on the social and economic landscape of the country.

Protesters accused the UNHCR of intentionally aiding undocumented migrants, claiming their presence exacerbates existing issues within Libya. These sentiments come as Libya grapples with economic troubles and social strife, worsened by years of conflict since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011.

UNHCR’s Response to Claims

In response to the demonstrations, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) acknowledged the rights of Libyans to express their views but cautioned against the spread of misinformation and hate speech. The agency highlighted that such rhetoric could heighten tensions and incite hostility against both national and international UN officials operating in Libya.

According to a statement from UNSMIL, “UN agencies are not implementing any programmes to resettle migrants in Libya, and all claims regarding this are completely unfounded.” Furthermore, the UN High Commission for Refugees stressed that its efforts focus on finding solutions outside Libya for individuals fleeing conflict, which include potential evacuation to third countries or voluntary returns when conditions permit.

UNSMIL also condemned any acts of violence or threats directed towards UN personnel, alongside vandalism and assaults against their facilities. The organisation reiterated its commitment to protecting both its staff and the vulnerable populations they serve.

Context of Migration in Libya

Since 2011, Libya has transformed into a key transit hub for many migrants, particularly from sub-Saharan Africa, who are attempting to escape conflict and poverty in their home countries. Reports indicate that hundreds of thousands undertake perilous journeys across harsh terrains or perilous sea routes to reach safety.

The International Organization for Migration estimates that Libya hosts approximately 900,000 migrants within its borders, highlighting the complexity of the migration issue in the country. Many of these individuals are fleeing civil war, notably the Sudanese refugees who are seeking asylum and stability far from their war-torn homeland.

The protests signify the growing discontent within parts of the Libyan population, as they increasingly attribute some of their nation’s socio-economic challenges to the migrant presence. As unrest continues, the discourse surrounding migration policy and humanitarian efforts becomes ever more urgent and critical for both local communities and international organisations alike.

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