The so-called Libyan Coast Guard repeatedly attacks people on the move, as well as rescue ships. SOS Humanity is therefore calling for an end to German and European support for Libyan militias. And is launching a petition for the German Bundestag.

The EU and its member states are complicit in serious human rights violations in Libya: until 2028, they are supporting the Libyan border regime with at least 84 million euros – this includes training and equipment for the so-called Libyan Coast Guard, which is demonstrably riddled with militias. This illegitimate actor intercepts people in distress at sea in the Mediterranean and, in violation of international law, pulls them back to Libya. There, those seeking protection face arbitrary detention, torture, rape, extortion, enslavement and forced labour. 

The violence of the so-called Libyan Coast Guard primarily affects people fleeing their homes, but also humanitarian aid workers: Time and again, civilian rescue ships in the Central Mediterranean are subjected to threats, attacks, and repeated gunfire — being carried out by boats that were also funded by the EU. 

As the EU’s largest net contributor, Germany is complicit in this policy and no longer explicitly rules out the training of the so-called Libyan Coast Guard by German soldiers. 

At a time when human rights are coming under increasing pressure worldwide, a clear stance is needed: Germany must not be involved in training or supporting actors who have been proven to use violence against those seeking protection and humanitarian aid workers. The principle is clear: protect people – do not train militias!