UN Warns Against Violence as Tripoli Protest Blocks Refugee Agency Office Amid Rising Anti-Migrant Tensions

June 5, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya has reiterated support for peaceful assembly while cautioning against incitement to violence against its personnel and facilities in Tripoli, following a large protest that disrupted operations at the UN refugee agency’s main office on Thursday.

Authorities confirmed that no resettlement programme is being run by the UN in Libya, with refugee operations instead focused on evacuation to third countries and voluntary return when conditions allow.

The protest in Tripoli was characterised by participants chanting slogans rejecting migrant presence in the country, including calls for Libya to be reserved exclusively for Libyans.

Some of those involved later moved towards the office of the United Nations mission in the city, extending the demonstration beyond the initial blockade.

Libya’s role in regional migration flows has remained central since the 2011 uprising, with the country functioning as a key transit corridor for people moving towards Europe.