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On December 5, 2024, Somalia celebrated the return of 161 migrants who had been stranded in Libya under dire conditions. Welcomed at Egal International Airport in Hargeisa and Aden Abdulle International Airport (AAIA) in Mogadishu, these returnees are among the many Somali citizens who embarked on perilous journeys along the Northern Mediterranean Route, hoping to reach Europe.
The Federal Government of Somalia, alongside the Special Presidential Envoy for Migration, Returns, and Children’s Rights (OSPE), orchestrated this operation with funding from the European Union (EU) and implementation by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). This initiative marks a significant step in alleviating the plight of Somali migrants and reintegrating them into their communities.
A Collaborative Effort for Migrant Protection
Ambassador Mariam Yassin, Somalia’s Special Envoy for Migration, Returns, and Children’s Rights, expressed her gratitude during the reception:
“Today is a wonderful day as we welcome our brothers and sisters home. Another 161 of our citizens are safely returned and reunited with their families, and reintegrated into their communities thanks to our partnership with the European Union and IOM.”
EU Ambassador to Somalia, Karin Johansson, highlighted the importance of the operation:
“The return of these migrants puts an end to a difficult and painful chapter in their lives. More importantly, it offers a new beginning for a dignified and hopeful future here in Somalia, among their family and friends.”
Challenges Faced by Migrants in Libya
Somali migrants in Libya often endure severe hardships, including insecurity, lack of food, healthcare, and shelter. Many live in precarious conditions, facing protection risks such as trafficking and abuse. According to IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), over 1,500 Somali migrants are stranded in Libya.
The IOM Somalia Chief of Mission, Manuel Marques Pereira, emphasized the ongoing need for humanitarian support:
“In the coming months, we will assist hundreds more returning from Libya through this partnership.”
Comprehensive Support for Returnees
Under Somalia’s Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration in Sub-Saharan Africa (MPRR-SSA) program, funded by the EU and managed by IOM, returnees receive extensive support. This includes immediate pocket money, temporary accommodation, medical assistance, and mental health services. Migrants reuniting with families outside the capital are also provided with transportation assistance, followed by financial support to aid their reintegration into local communities.
The Road Ahead
The EU-IOM partnership has already facilitated the return of over 600 Somali migrants from Libya. As more are set to be repatriated in the coming months, this initiative underscores the commitment of all stakeholders to address migration challenges and ensure the safety and dignity of Somali citizens.
Conclusion
This operation is part of a larger effort to mitigate the risks of irregular migration and promote sustainable reintegration. By working together, the Somali government, the EU, and IOM are paving the way for brighter futures for returnees and strengthening the nation’s capacity to support its citizens in need.