Thirteen Rescue Organizations Suspend Cooperation with Libyan Coastguard Citing Escalating Violence Against Migrants

Thirteen search and rescue organizations operating in the Mediterranean Sea have collectively announced their decision to cease all forms of collaboration with the Libyan Coast Guard. The move, reported by Euronews, is a protest against what the organizations describe as an escalation of violence directed towards migrants and asylum seekers.
The groups explained that their decision follows an increase in incidents where migrant boats were intercepted violently and their occupants forcibly returned to Libya. These organizations maintain that Libya cannot be classified as a “safe country” for returning individuals, asserting that detention centres there are sites of severe human rights violations, including torture, rape, and forced labour.
This action serves as a direct rebuke to mounting pressure from the European Union, and particularly from Italy, to mandate the exchange of operational intelligence with the Libyan Coast Guard. It is noted that the Libyan Coast Guard receives substantial financial, logistical support, and training from the EU as part of its strategy to curb the flow of migrants towards the continent.
In an escalating measure, the 13 organizations have announced the formation of a new alliance named “Justice Fleet”. This coalition aims to meticulously document all alleged instances of abuse and violence involving the Libyan Coast Guard, and to pursue related legal avenues. The organizations affirmed their commitment to proceed, emphasising that “retreat is not an option,” despite potential legal risks, which could include fines or the confiscation of their vessels.