EUBAM Libya Strengthens Border Management with Advanced Training in Italy

The European Union Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM Libya) recently organized a specialized training program aimed at strengthening Libya’s Integrated Border Management (IBM). The initiative, held in Cesena and Ancona, Italy, focused on advanced document security and practical border control techniques. Libyan officials from various agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Defence, Libyan Customs Authority, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the program.

The training began with advanced document-security sessions at the Italian State Police Academy (CAPS) in Cesena. Participants learned about document production, security features, electronic documents, biometrics, and how to identify fraudulent documents. Practical exercises were conducted to enhance their technical and frontline detection skills. The knowledge gained was then applied during live border control exercises at Ancona International Port, where participants observed Italian authorities performing document and identity checks, database interoperability, and risk-based inspections.

Mr. Sandro Tommasi, a senior Italian police officer and Senior Integrated Border Advisor at EUBAM Libya, highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation. He noted that combining document verification, information-sharing, and risk-based controls can lead to a more integrated and effective border-management system. The initiative demonstrated how different authorities can work together to strengthen border security.

EUBAM Libya, established in 2013, supports Libyan authorities through technical advice, specialized training, and expertise exchange. The mission focuses on enhancing integrated border management and cooperation among Libyan border security agencies. This recent training program is part of ongoing efforts to bolster Libya’s border management capabilities.