The number of migrants in Libya has reached 858,604, according to the latest report from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), covering the period from January to February 2025. The data, released through IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), reflects a continuing rise in migration to Libya, up from 824,131 at the end of 2024.
The report highlights the growing complexities surrounding migration in the country, with individuals from 46 nationalities now present. Men account for 78% of the migrant population, while women and children make up the remaining 22%. Most migrants originate from four countries: Sudan (31%), Niger (22%), Egypt (20%), and Chad (10%).
The surge in Sudanese arrivals is largely attributed to the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan, which has forced many to flee into neighboring Libya.
Geographically, the western region of Libya is home to over half (52%) of the migrant population, drawn by employment opportunities in construction and manufacturing. The eastern region houses 35%, with major cities such as Tripoli, Misrata, and Benghazi hosting the highest concentrations of migrants—15%, 10%, and 10%, respectively.
The humanitarian situation remains dire. About 76% of migrants reportedly lack access to healthcare services, hindered by high costs and inadequate infrastructure. Education is also a major concern, with 65% of migrant children out of school due to financial hardship, lack of legal documentation, integration issues, and language barriers.
The IOM’s findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened support and policy responses to address the needs of Libya’s growing migrant population.