Migrant advocate laments death of asylum seeker, condemns Libya abuses

The Executive Director of Refugees in Libya, David Yambio, has mourned the death of a migrant whose body was recovered off the coast of Benghazi after reportedly being stranded at sea for 14 days, describing the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by people fleeing conflict and persecution.

In a post on X, Yambio reflected on his own experience in Libya, saying that while detained in the North African country, he had often hoped that, if he were to die, it would be at sea rather than at the hands of violent militias.

According to him, the sea represented the only place where many migrants retained a sense of dignity, as they risked everything in pursuit of safety and international protection.

Yambio questioned what he described as a deeper humanitarian tragedy, arguing that many people seeking refuge would rather face the dangers of the Mediterranean than remain exposed to violence by armed groups in Libya.

He also criticised what he called Europe’s role in arming militias and accused African leaders of remaining silent in the face of abuses against migrants.

The activist said the photograph accompanying his post showed one of several people seeking protection who had been stranded at sea for two weeks. He noted that the man’s body, along with those of two others, was recovered off the coast of Benghazi a few days ago.

Ending his post on a poignant note, Yambio said the deceased asylum seeker had been portrayed as an “invader,” underscoring what he believes is the dehumanisation of migrants fleeing in search of safety.