Francesca Pellegrini A group of more than a dozen non-governmental organizations (NGOs) active in search and rescue have decided to join together to form a new alliance, called Justice Fleet . This initiative was launched in response to the ongoing human rights violations affecting migrants and asylum seekers in the Mediterranean. The NGOs, from countries including Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, announced they have suspended all cooperation with the Libyan Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC), accused of coordinating violent actions against refugees.
The Creation of the Justice Fleet
Last Wednesday, several organizations announced the formation of the Justice Fleet , an initiative aimed at ensuring respect for human rights and international maritime law. This new group suspended operational communications with the JRCC in Tripoli, citing years of human rights violations against those attempting to cross the sea to Europe.
In an official statement, it was clarified that the JRCC cannot be considered a competent authority for rescue operations.
Criticism of the Libyan authorities
Ina Friebe, spokesperson for the Compass Collective , pointed out that humanitarian organizations have never recognized the JRCC as a legitimate relief agency.
This body is considered part of a violent regime supported by the European Union. Friebe stated that the pressure to communicate with these actors must end: "Suspending all operational communication with the JRCC is a legal and moral necessity, a clear stand against European complicity in crimes against humanity."
The violence of the Libyan guard corps
The Libyan coast guard has recorded at least 60 violent incidents at sea since 2016, according to a report by Sea-Watch , a non-governmental organization monitoring human rights violations. It is crucial to note that the actual number of violent incidents is likely much higher. These incidents include shootings at boats loaded with refugees, abandonment of people at sea, and obstructions in rescue operations.
Data on deaths in the Mediterranean
In 2025, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) recorded at least 2.452 deaths or missing in the Mediterranean. This route remains one of the most dangerous for migrants. Libya has become a major transit point for those seeking to reach Europe. This situation emerged following the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, which transformed the country into a battleground between rival militias.
The role of the European Union
In recent years, the European Union has stepped up efforts to curb immigration, providing financial support and equipment to the Libyan Coast Guard , a paramilitary organization linked to militias accused of abuses. This approach has increased the dangers of Mediterranean crossings, leading many to remain stranded in Libya, where they are often detained in inhumane conditions, as denounced by human rights organizations.
The new alliance of European NGOs represents a response to a humanitarian emergency and marks an important stand against detention practices and ongoing violations in Libya. It is hoped that this coalition will bring greater attention and concrete action to ensure respect for human rights in the context of the Mediterranean migration crisis.