OHCHRGENEVA - Migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers in Libya are subjected to ruthless and systematic human rights violations and abuses, which include killings, torture, sexual violence and trafficking, according to a UN report published today. Those intercepted are often forcibly returned to Libya, where they risk facing the same cycle of abuse. Ending all forms of modern slavery, forced labour and human trafficking, and ensuring accountability for human rights violations and abuses are also crucial. The report urges the international community, including the European Union, to establish a moratorium on interceptions and returns to Libya until adequate human rights safeguards are ensured. Technical and financial assistance should be strictly conditioned on demonstrated, consistent respect for international human rights standards and should not proceed where such compliance is not met.

Source: Libya Today February 17, 2026 10:30 UTC