UN Security Council (UN File photo)
New York (IINA) – The UN Security Council has deplored the recent maritime tragedy in the Mediterranean Sea that resulted in up to 500 deaths when an overcrowded boat capsized en route from Libya to Europe, emphasizing the need for better coordination of efforts to deal with the smuggling of migrants.
In a press statement, the members of the Council expressed “grave concern” at the proliferation of, and endangerment of lives by, the smuggling of migrants in the Mediterranean Sea, including off the coast of Libya.
Extending its “deepest condolences” to all those affected by the tragedy, the Council underlined the need to bring the perpetrators of the acts to justice. It also called for full implementation of resolution 2240 (2015), which is intended to disrupt the organized criminal enterprises engaged in migrant smuggling and prevent the loss of life.
The Council also urged all member states, including countries of origin, destination and transit, to cooperate with one another and with relevant international and regional organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in addressing illicit migration flows, and dismantling smuggling networks in the region.
Further, the Council reemphasized that migrants, including asylum-seekers and regardless of their migration status, should be treated with humanity and dignity and that their rights should be fully respected.
Earlier this week, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported that as many as 500 people had lost their lives when an overcrowded boat carrying refugees and migrants sank in the Mediterranean Sea at an unknown location between Libya and Italy.
AB/IINA
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