The United Nations Support Mission in Libya denied on Friday that its refugee agency is seeking to resettle irregular migrants in the country, affirming that “allegations to the contrary are categorically false.”
UNSMIL said in a statement it took note of the demonstrations held in front of its premises and those of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
“The United Nations affirms the right of all Libyans to obtain accurate information, and their right to express their opinions peacefully in accordance with what is guaranteed by Libyan and international laws,” the mission said.
“UNSMIL is concerned about the spread of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech regarding the work of the UN in Libya, which has contributed to heightened tensions and incitement against UN national and international staff,” it added.
The UN in Libya reiterated that none of its agencies, including UNHCR, implement any resettlement programs to Libya. “Allegations to the contrary are categorically false,” the mission affirmed.
It said the Office works in cooperation with Libyan authorities and the international community, within the framework of full respect for Libya's sovereignty, to find solutions outside Libya for persons fleeing wars, conflicts, and persecution, including evacuations to third countries and voluntary returns to their home countries when circumstances permit.
The Mission condemned “any incitement to violence, threats against UN personnel, and acts of vandalism and/or attacks against United Nations staff, premises, and property.”
It called on all parties to respect the inviolability of UN premises, staff, property, and assets in accordance with international law.
The UN in Libya also expressed its appreciation to the relevant authorities in Tripoli for their efforts in maintaining public order and ensuring the safety and security of the demonstrators, as well as UN staff and facilities.
UNSMIL’s statement came amid heightened debate within Libya over the issue of irregular migration, and growing popular and official demands for tougher measures to address the trend.
On Thursday, angry Libyan demonstrators blocked off the office of the UN refugee agency in the capital Tripoli during a protest against migrants who have travelled to the country in search of work or passage to Europe.
They demanded the UN to shut down its offices in Libya, acting on reports that resettlement cards were being distributed by the UNHCR to refugees and illegal immigrants in Libya.
Later, other Libyan protesters who oppose the resettlement of migrants, stormed the mission’s headquarters in the Janzour area, west of Tripoli before Libyan security forces intervened, dispersed the crowds, and secured UN and local staff inside the compound.
On Friday night, the UN mission in Libya issued a statement affirming that a fruitful dialogue requires all parties to engage in good faith to achieve constructive and sustainable outcomes.
The mission again condemned any incitement to violence, saying, “There is no justification for violence or intimidation, which we know does not align with Libyan culture, traditions, and values.”
