Recent data from the Mixed Migration Center showed a 25% decrease in the number of migrants departing from Libya toward European shores during the first quarter of 2025. Approximately 9,168 migrants arrived in Italy from the beginning of 2025 until the end of March, with 93% of them (around 8,500 migrants) departing from Libyan coasts.
However, the report recorded a significant increase in the number of illegal migrants and refugees residing inside Libya. The data showed a notable rise in the number of registered refugees and asylum seekers in Libya, particularly among Sudanese refugees.
Since the beginning of the Sudanese war in April 2023, around 256,000 Sudanese refugees have arrived in Libya. Since the start of 2025, 88,283 refugees have been registered in Libya, marking a 12% increase compared to the last quarter of 2024.
Sudan continues to top the list of countries of origin for refugees in Libya, with Sudanese refugees accounting for 29% of the total, followed by Niger (23%), Egypt (20%), Chad (10%), and Nigeria (4%).
The center also pointed out that irregular migration from eastern Libya toward Greece saw a noticeable revival during the first quarter of 2025.
According to the International Organization for Migration’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) data, the number of migrants in Libya reached approximately 824,131 by December 2024, reflecting a 17% increase compared to the previous year.
Most migrants are concentrated in western Libya (about 53%), followed by the eastern region (34%), while 13% are located in the southern region.
The Mixed Migration report highlights that Libya remains a major hub for migrants heading toward Europe, despite the decline in the number of departures from its shores.
At the same time, the number of refugees and irregular migrants inside the country continues to rise, reflecting the ongoing influx of people into Libya either in search of opportunities to reach Europe or to settle in the country.
