Brussels, 27 November 2017/ ACP: The African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States has learnt with deep concern of the inhuman treatment of the auctioning of migrants in Libya. The ACP Group strongly condemns these despicable acts of slavery that no longer has a place in the world and amount to crimes against humanity.

The ACP Group stands ready to partner and support the efforts of the African Union in addressing this issue. The ACP Group is convinced of the need to combine forces to address root causes of migration such as conflict and lack of opportunities that drive thousands to migrate in desperation. The ACP Group further calls for meaningful development cooperation with effective means that counter the trafficking of human beings and smuggling of migrants.

The ACP Group commends the Libyan authorities for their immediate response to investigate these heinous acts and calls for an outcome that will lead to justice for the victims.

The ACP Group remains committed to upholding human rights of migrants, regardless of their immigration status and to prevent and combat migrant smuggling and human trafficking.