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Irregular migration from Libya to Crete increases amid smuggling concerns

Rising numbers of migrants travelling irregularly from eastern Libya to Greece raise questions about links between smugglers and militias.

A large boat in the middle of the ocean
Illustrative image. Photo: Igor Sporynin on Unsplash

At a glance

  • Irregular migration from eastern Libya to Crete is rising
  • The increase is prompting investigation into links between smugglers and militias
  • Questions are being raised about potential European connections

Irregular migration from eastern Libya to Crete has increased in recent times, according to Deutsche Welle. The trend is prompting scrutiny of the connections between people smugglers operating in the region and powerful militias in eastern Libya.

The situation also raises questions about potential links between these groups and European actors, though details of such connections remain unclear.

Why it matters

The route represents a significant migration corridor to Europe, and understanding the networks involved is relevant to migration policy and security.

Original reporting

This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above and checked against our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Request a correction.