From 8 – 10 April 2025, EUBAM Libya conducted a three-day training programme focused on combating the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage, held at the Headquarters of the Libyan Customs Authority (LCA). The event brought together 15 officers from the LCA and the Tourism Police of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) to enhance their capabilities in protecting Libya’s invaluable cultural patrimony.

The training addressed the multifaceted challenges associated with the illicit trafficking, import, and export of cultural heritage across Libya’s international borders. The participants, mandated to protect ancient sites and investigate archaeological crimes, actively engaged throughout the training. Their active participation demonstrated their strong commitment within Libyan agencies to tackle this serious issue.

Lieutenant Colonel Moez Al-Jaafari, Director of the Public Relations Department for the Tourist Police and Antiquities Protection Department, remarked on the value of the training: “As members of the Tourist Police Department,” stated Al-Jaafari, “we greatly benefited from this training. The discussions focused on effectively combating the export and smuggling of antiquities.”

Giuseppe Portale, EUBAM Libya Senior Customs Adviser and Cultural Heritage Focal Point, also emphasised the significance of the initiative: “Cultural heritage is our legacy to future generations, and it is our shared duty to protect it. On behalf of EUBAM Libya, I would like to express appreciation to our Libyan counterparts for their active engagement and professional approach in addressing the illicit trafficking challenge.”