HGRA
Project Overview
The HGRA Project (Enhancing
Management & Studies on Migration Issues in Libya) is an EU-funded
initiative designed to strengthen Libya’s ability to understand, research, and
manage migration challenges. The project focuses on improving academic knowledge,
institutional capacity, and policy development related to migration. By working
through universities, research centers, and policymakers, HGRA promotes
evidence-based solutions and contributes to better migration governance and
humanitarian responses in Libya.
Official website: https://hgraproject.eu/
Main Goal
The main goal of the HGRA Project is to improve Libya’s capacity to manage and
mitigate the impacts of migration. It does this by strengthening higher
education institutions, supporting migration research, and developing policy
tools that help decision-makers respond effectively to migration challenges.
Why the
Project Exists
Libya is one of the main transit countries along the Central Mediterranean
migration route used by migrants and refugees attempting to reach Europe. Due
to ongoing political and economic challenges, migrants often face difficult
humanitarian conditions, exploitation, and human rights risks. At the same time,
migration studies and specialized academic training in Libya have historically
been limited. The HGRA Project was created to address this gap by building
national expertise and improving research and policy capacity.
What the
HGRA Project Does
Migration Observatory &
Research
The project supports the creation of a migration observatory that collects,
analyzes, and monitors data on migration trends, routes, and impacts within
Libya. This research helps universities, institutions, and policymakers better
understand migration dynamics and develop evidence-based responses.
Policy Hub
HGRA works to strengthen policy development related to migration management. It
provides training sessions, workshops, and knowledge exchange opportunities for
academics, public officials, and stakeholders. The goal is to improve policy
design, planning, and decision-making processes using research-based insights.
Academic
Training & Curriculum Development
The project supports Libyan universities in developing migration-focused academic
programs and courses. It introduces modern teaching materials and
interdisciplinary approaches that combine social sciences, law, economics, and
humanitarian studies. This helps prepare students and professionals to work in
migration management, research, and related fields.
Capacity
Building
HGRA enhances institutional capacity through training workshops, staff
development, and academic exchange. It strengthens universities’ administrative
and research capabilities, enabling them to play a stronger role in addressing
migration challenges and contributing to national development.
Partners
Involved
European partners
Sapienza University of Rome
University of Barcelona
UNIMED Mediterranean Universities Union
Libyan partners
University of Tripoli
University of Zawia
Sebha University
Tobruk University
Gulf of Sidra University
Sabratha Higher Institute for Science and Technology
Timeline
& Funding
The HGRA Project runs from February 2023 to January 2026. It is funded by the
European Union under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education
program, which supports international cooperation and educational development.
Expected
Impact
The project is expected to build long-term migration expertise within Libyan
universities and research institutions. It will strengthen research networks
and support policy development at national and regional levels. By improving
knowledge and institutional capacity, HGRA contributes to more effective
migration governance, better humanitarian responses, and sustainable academic programs
focused on migration studies.