The European Union (EU) has announced the commencement of its efforts to unify Libyan institutions and enhance their security capabilities, including support for border monitoring in the southern region, a key gateway for migrants crossing the Sahara Desert on their way to Europe.
This initiative marks the second phase of the “Rings” project, launched by the EU in 2021. The project aims to provide tangible support for Libya’s security arrangements in the ceasefire zone, particularly focusing on the coastal road linking Eastern and Western Libya.
In a statement posted on the social media platform “X” (formerly known as Twitter), the EU Ambassador to Libya, Nicola Orlando, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Libya, particularly in the security sector and in the effective implementation of the 2020 ceasefire agreement.
Orlando highlighted the success of the first phase of the “Rings” project, which resulted in the reopening of Libya’s coastal road in 2021. The road has remained safe ever since, thanks to the EU’s support.
This new phase of the project is part of the broader EU strategy to stabilize Libya, a country grappling with political fragmentation, internal conflicts, and the humanitarian challenges posed by irregular migration.
With the continued support of European and international partners, the EU aims to improve security infrastructure and promote long-term peace and stability in Libya.
The focus on strengthening border monitoring is especially critical, given Libya’s role as a major transit point for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa.
By bolstering the country’s ability to manage its borders, the EU seeks to address both security concerns and humanitarian challenges, contributing to the broader efforts to control migration flows to Europe.