Somalia Receives 135 Citizens Returning from Libya

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has received 135 citizens returning from Libya as the government steps up efforts to bring home nationals exposed to the dangers of irregular migration and difficult conditions abroad.

The returnees were received in Mogadishu by Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Hosh, Health Minister Dr Ali Haji Adam and National Commission for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons Commissioner Liban Abdi Egal.

Representatives of the European Union, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other government institutions also attended the reception.

The return marks part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and its international partners to facilitate the safe return of Somali migrants from Libya, a major transit and destination country for people attempting to reach Europe through irregular routes.

Many migrants travelling through Libya face risks including exploitation, detention, trafficking and dangerous journeys across the Mediterranean.

The government said it was working with international partners to protect the welfare of returning citizens and support their reintegration into their communities.

The latest arrival highlights continuing efforts to address the challenges facing Somali nationals who undertake dangerous migration journeys in search of opportunities abroad.