Fact-Finding Mission on Libya to present findings to UNHRC
The UN Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Libya will present a report today to the UN Human Rights Council.
The investigation focuses on human rights violations experienced by migrants and detainees affected by the country’s Second Civil War lasting from 2014 to 2020, and the subsequent state of unrest. War crimes and crimes against humanity—including the use of child soldiers, attacking hospitals and schools, and the disappearance of prominent women—have been committed by all sides of the conflict and perpetuate the ongoing instability.
The mission’s presentation of their findings comes amidst a government crackdown on migrants in Libya with over 5,000 Europe-bound migrants detained, and at least one killed during government raids.
The report could prompt international powers like the US, Russia and the EU to reconsider their support for the conflict’s disparate actors. However, the fact-finding mission was only active for four months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, given the report’s short time frame it may not be taken as seriously, especially since major international powers have stakes in its outcome. Nonetheless, the findings are important as Libya is a major migrant transport hub and improving protection for vulnerable migrants will remain a priority for the EU.
Wake up smarter with an assessment of the stories that will make headlines in the next 24 hours. Download The Daily Brief.
