Rwanda receives South Sudanese asylum seekers from Libya

Rwanda has welcomed its 23rd group of asylum seekers, totaling 173 individuals, evacuated from Libya under the Emergency Transit Mechanism (ETM). Among this group, 12 are from South Sudan, with others originating from Sudan (85), Eritrea (66), Somalia (2), and Ethiopia (7).

The ETM program is a humanitarian initiative designed to rescue vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers from dangerous conditions and detention centers in Libya. Those transferred to Rwanda receive temporary protection and assistance while durable solutions, such as resettlement to third countries, are pursued.

Since September 2019, Rwanda has played a significant role in the ETM, having received over 3,000 refugees and asylum seekers from Libya. Out of these, 2,623 have been successfully resettled in third countries, reaffirming Rwanda's commitment to providing refuge for those in need.

Approximately 2,173 South Sudanese refugees and asylum seekers are registered in Libya, although they represent a small fraction of the total migrant population. Most South Sudanese fleeing conflict tend to seek refuge in neighboring East African countries rather than attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing. Sudanese nationals form the largest group of registered refugees and asylum seekers in Libya, accounting for about 82.5%.

Humanitarian agencies have consistently warned about the dangers faced by migrants in Libya, including arbitrary detention, abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking. The ETM is considered a vital lifeline for these vulnerable individuals.