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Irregular migration remains one of the most formidable challenges confronting even the most advanced and powerful nations globally. Despite ongoing international initiatives, substantial resources dedicated to addressing this issue, and significant advancements in technology designed to combat migration, it persists unabated. Statistics indicate a significant surge in levels of irregular migration over the past decade, despite considerable technological progress and a robust political will to tackle this phenomenon, writes Walid Ellafi.
At its core, migration is a fundamental human condition. It is a natural response to the pursuit of a better life, stability, and happiness. Migrants do not endure arduous and perilous journeys except in search of a dignified existence. More broadly, migration waves represent a natural phenomenon akin to osmosis, where groups of people flow from one area to another until equilibrium is reached.
Viewing the migration issue from this perspective is key to approaching it with the correct methodology. Balance, opportunities, and happiness are the pivotal terms in this matter. Thus, disregarding the broader context in which this phenomenon occurs and attempting to compensate for a proper understanding with modern technology and additional resources and security measures is akin to battling windmills – a costly endeavor with very limited results.
Addressing the root causes of irregular migration is a long-standing discourse that gains momentum intermittently. Today, it is gaining substantial momentum amidst major geopolitical shifts, economic challenges, and climatic changes worldwide. We observe how migration has become a central issue in the European political landscape and in bilateral relations between international entities.
The current international scenario confirms that partial approaches to the migration issue are no longer viable solutions. This is the premise of the Mediterranean Migration Forum (TMMF) initiative, which aims to create a strategic framework for dialogue and cooperation between Europe and Africa to comprehensively address this issue. The initiative is based on the necessity of acknowledging past mistakes, approaching the matter with contemporary tools and methodologies, and addressing the major aspects surrounding this issue in African-European relations on political, economic, and security levels, thereby addressing this issue more deeply and accurately.
The two main tracks of the forum articulate Libya’s comprehensive vision on irregular migration. The first track, involving heads of state and governments, addresses the issue at a strategic level, seeking to formulate a unified vision and policies, develop the foundations of African-European relations based on mutual respect and shared interests, and plan rapid humanitarian response policies that ensure the rights and safety of migrants. The second track, involving interior ministers and security officials, addresses files of security cooperation and the exchange of expertise and information, making it a multi-dimensional approach (geopolitical, security, humanitarian).
The necessity of such an initiative becomes evident when examining the statistics and trends related to irregular migration. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the number of international migrants rose to over 281 million in 2022, with more than 330,000 irregular migrants crossing the European Union’s borders in 2022, a 64% increase from 2021. A significant proportion undertake dangerous and deadly journeys across the Mediterranean Sea. Reports from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) show that thousands of migrants have perished attempting to cross the Mediterranean, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive and humane response.
The economic impact of irregular migration is profound. For destination countries in Europe, it presents challenges related to integration, labor markets, and social cohesion. For African countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa, the loss of youth and skilled individuals hampers development. Transit countries, often lacking the resources and infrastructure to handle large migrant flows, face significant humanitarian and security challenges.
These root causes need to be addressed through sustainable development, improving governance, and enhancing cooperation. By investing in economic opportunities, education, and healthcare in source countries, we can reduce the push factors driving irregular migration. Additionally, strengthening legal migration pathways and enhancing transit countries’ capacity to manage migrant flows humanely are essential components of this strategy.
In conclusion, we need a forward-looking approach to one of the most pressing issues of our time. By adopting a comprehensive strategy, we can address the complex dynamics of irregular migration. This initiative is not merely about managing migration flows; it aims to create a future where opportunities and stability are accessible to all, thereby reducing the necessity for perilous journeys across the Mediterranean. The success of this forum depends on our collective commitment to cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
The Author, Walid Ellafi, is the State Minister of Communications & Political Affairs of the Government of National Unity (GUN) of Libya based in Tripoli and President of the Trans-Mediterranean Migration Forum TMMF 2024
