The European Union and Externalization of Migration Management in Libya

In 2015, during what has been called by Europeans (their) 'migration crisis,' thousands have died trying to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean. The EU has been under pressure to respond to this 'crisis.' One of the important strategies implemented by the EU has been the externalization of migration management to third countries to deter migrants from taking the dangerous journey to Europe. This study presents an overview of migration policies and practices implemented by the EU and Libya. It argues that the EU's migration policies and its over-reliance on the Libyan authorities have, in fact, served as the means to evade international responsibility and commitment to protecting refugees and asylum seekers. The adoption of such policies undermines the international human rights principles and treaties and attempts to blur the lines of responsibility and accountability.