Somalia Welcomes 162 Young Migrants Returned from Libya

MOGADISHU — Somalia has welcomed 162 young citizens returned from Libya, as the government steps up efforts to bring home nationals facing difficult and unsafe migration conditions abroad.

The National Commission for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (NCRI) received the returnees, who have come back to Somalia to reunite with their families, relatives and communities, the government said.

The reception ceremony was attended by Maryan Yasin, the presidential envoy for migration and children’s rights; Colin Anderson, head of cooperation at the European Union office in Somalia; and Ministech Morina, deputy head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) mission in Somalia, along with other officials.

The return is part of the federal government’s efforts to protect Somali citizens exposed to security threats and humanitarian hardship along irregular migration routes, according to the statement.

The government said it remained committed to rescuing and repatriating Somalis experiencing difficult conditions in different countries, stressing that every citizen deserved safety, dignity and the opportunity to rebuild their life at home.

The initiative also highlights cooperation between Somalia, the European Union, the IOM and other international partners to facilitate safe returns, protect the rights of returnees and support their reintegration into society.

The NCRI plays a key role in receiving and assisting people returning to Somalia. The young returnees are expected to receive support to help them rebuild their lives, taking into account their individual needs, living conditions and the opportunities required to reintegrate into their communities.

Somali nationals have faced significant risks along irregular migration routes, including exploitation, detention and dangerous journeys in search of safety or better economic opportunities. The government said it would continue working with international partners to help citizens return home safely and access support for their reintegration.