Political round-up: PM Pedro Sanchez battles growing Ceuta backlash as opposition turns up the heat

Over 1,600 migrant children have been registered in Ceuta as Spain attempts to relocate minors from streets and makeshift camps into appropriate care more than a month after a mass influx from Morocco. By September 1, the North African enclave had registered 1,612 minors, including 1,129 identified after the July 30-31 crossing.

Officials admit the true number could be higher due to unregistered children. Concern grows over children and teenagers still residing outdoors, in warehouses, forests, and improvised shelters after tens of thousands crossed from Morocco in two days. Humanitarian workers warn unaccompanied minors face risks of violence, exploitation, poor sanitation, and lack of privacy.

Seventeen-year-old Ikram among the Moroccans who crossed from Fnideq, Morocco, hoping to reach Spanish territory and ultimately mainland Europe. Like many teenagers, she struggled with unstable accommodation after initial relief, leading to uncertainty over registration, protection, and onward movement. Spanish authorities estimate 80,000 entered Ceuta during the surge, though earlier estimates were lower, and most returned to Morocco, leaving services strained in a city of roughly 84,000.

An emergency package worth €309 million was approved on September 1 to support Ceuta's economy, security, and expand reception and public services. €63.6 million was allocated for measures involving migrant children, on top of €25 million previously approved. The funding covers accommodation, food, clothing, medical and psychosocial care, legal assistance, education, translation, and transfers.

Madrid proposes moving about 500 minors to mainland reception facilities to ease pressure on Ceuta's child-protection system. Youth and Children Minister Sira Rego prioritizes family reunification where possible, while families may relocate to Morocco, Spain, or other European countries. The government prioritizes processing cases, including asylum claims and family reunifications, in facilities where identities can be established.

Conditions remain difficult for migrants outside formal accommodation, with children sleeping under blankets or cardboard, facing limited access to basic facilities. Humanitarian organizations and locals describe girls and younger children as particularly vulnerable in mixed encampments. Ceuta's authorities have pushed for faster transfers, while Madrid stresses children cannot be summarily returned, and repatriation must comply with Spanish law and the minor's best interests.

The July crossing was partly fueled by social media messages suggesting the border could be breached, leading to chaotic scenes and a significant death toll.