Spain requests emergency funding from the EU over Ceuta migrants

Spain's government has taken action to expedite the return of thousands of migrants still residing in Ceuta, following a mass influx from Morocco in July. Over 70,000 migrants entered the Spanish territory in North Africa, swimming or crossing on foot, resulting in fatalities and heightened tensions within the EU concerning migration.

While most have since returned to Morocco, between 3,500 and 7,000 individuals, including unaccompanied minors, remain in Ceuta. Local residents have expressed concerns regarding security and hygiene issues stemming from homeless migrants living in the streets, accusing the central government of neglecting Ceuta's needs.

Spanish authorities are tasked with identifying the remaining migrants to determine their eligibility for international protection or to initiate repatriation procedures. However, this process has been criticized as being too slow by Ceuta's regional government, which is under the control of the conservative Popular Party (PP). To address this issue, Spain's cabinet recently approved the establishment of a single command for Ceuta, overseen by territorial policy minister Angel Víctor Torres.

The primary objective is to expedite the return and repatriation of as many migrants as possible, while adhering to Spanish law and human rights standards.

In the interim, Spain will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to those seeking asylum or unaccompanied minors who cannot be returned, according to the government. Last week, the government announced that reception centers would be built for 1,800 migrants, with additional temporary accommodation to be made available to restore normalcy in Ceuta.

Ceuta, along with Spain's other North African enclave of Melilla, is the only land border within the EU's Schengen zone, meaning travelers cannot proceed to mainland Spain without border checks. The issue surrounding the migrants has emerged as a significant political concern, with Spain's government facing pressure from conservative opposition and far-right parties demanding the return of all those who entered Ceuta, including minors.

However, Torres emphasized that Spain must comply with international law, warning that those advocating for mass returns due to populism or political gain are misguided.