The Demographic Clamp around the Libyan State and the Geopolitical Ambitions of Its Neighboring Countries

Abstract

The demographic clamp represents a geopolitical phenomenon resulting from the significant disparity in population growth rates between Libya and its neighboring countries, particularly those south of the Sahara. While Libya experiences slow population growth and low density, surrounding states face demographic explosions coupled with weak economies and scarce resources, creating increasing human pressures on Libyan borders through irregular migration and infiltration in search of better opportunities. This demographic reality generates economic, security, and social threats, while intensifying regional and international geopolitical ambitions toward Libya due to its strategic location and rich oil resources. The study aims to analyze this phenomenon and assess its implications for Libyan national security, proposing integrated demographic and developmental policies to strengthen demographic security and mitigate the impacts of external population pressures.