Spain approves migrant camp at Ceuta port despite local opposition

Spain's government has approved a temporary migrant camp at Ceuta port, contradicting local authorities' objections. The decision overrules local authorities who argued against using the port for this purpose. This move is part of ongoing disputes on how to house migrants in the Spanish North African enclave. The government decided to set up the temporary tent camp in the port area after local authorities rejected the proposal.

Ceuta's local government president, Juan Jesús Vivas, had announced his refusal to the camp in the port, emphasizing the area's significance for supplying the enclave's needs and its proximity to a large fuel depot. The issue of migrant accommodation extends beyond the port location. Local authorities have previously opposed other temporary accommodation options, such as an abandoned factory, a former military hospital, and sports centers.

In parallel, construction is ongoing for an additional camp in the Los Rosales neighborhood, which can accommodate around 900 people. However, protests from residents have been reported at this site as well. These measures are taking place amid a surge in the number of migrants in Ceuta. Following the crossing of about 72,000 migrants from Morocco on July 30 and 31, a majority returned to Morocco within hours.

Nevertheless, approximately 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta over a month later, within an area of just 18 square kilometers. This includes 1,200 minors, according to government data.