Statement by Minister IRIYA Takayuki, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security (Smuggling of Migrants and Trafficking in Persons in the High Sea off the Coast of Libya)

Thank you, Mr. President. I thank Mr. Dhanapala, Director of UNHCR in New York, and Mr. Liljer​t, Director of IOM, for their insightful briefings.

At the outset, Japan joins others in commending those Member States which are dedicating assets and resources to fight against migrant smuggling and human trafficking from Libya. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the co-penholders, France and Malta.
Japan welcomes the European Union’s Naval Operation IRINI’s contributions to maintain peace and stability in Libya and the region.

I would like to briefly mention three points today.

First, while the Secretary-General has reported that the overall number of arrivals to Europe across the Mediterranean from North Africa has decreased, Japan remains appalled by the high numbers of deaths and missing persons resulting from the dangerous maritime transit undertaken by migrants seeking a better life. We cannot tolerate such tragedies. Japan is also concerned about reports of human rights violations and abuses against migrants in Libya.

Japan calls for further efforts by the international and regional organisations and the Member States concerned to prevent such calamities from happening, combat human trafficking and smuggling, and assist Libya to build its capacity, in accordance with relevant and applicable international law.

Second, Japan stresses the importance of a holistic approach at all stages of migration in countries of origin, transit and destination. We should also address the root causes of irregular migration including the adverse effects of climate change and economic situations.

Third, Japan reiterates its full support to UNSMIL in facilitating a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process. Holding long-overdue national elections is the only way to restore the legitimacy of national institutions and bring about political stability in Libya, which will enable better tackling of the problems that Libya is facing including with regards to migration.

Let me conclude by emphasising Japan’s unwavering support to the human security and dignity of people in vulnerable situations including those on the painful journey in and through Libya.

Japan stands ready to cooperate with Libya and other international partners to alleviate the dire situation that these migrants experience.

I thank you.