Libya – Economist Waheed Al-Jabou said that the main reasons driving young Libyans to migrate to Europe are economic hardship and declining job opportunities. He noted it has become increasingly difficult to find employment due to ongoing government hiring freezes in state institutions and the public sector.
Al-Jabou added that persistent political and economic instability, along with the lack of a clear vision for managing the country, has caused many young people to lose hope in future improvements. Libya has experienced over 15 years of turmoil, without reaching political consensus, establishing stable constitutional rules, or ensuring the peaceful transfer of power.
He explained that the failure to diversify national income sources and the continued reliance on a limited economic model have worsened the crisis. As a result, many young people see migration as a way to improve their living conditions.
Some young Libyans pursue legal migration by obtaining travel visas and staying in European countries or applying for asylum. Others turn to irregular migration by crossing the Mediterranean by sea, despite facing significant risks.
Al-Jabou stressed that ongoing economic and financial hardship, along with the absence of political stability, are the main factors behind the growing desire among young Libyans to seek a better future abroad.