Spain aims to ban evictions until 2030 amid housing protests

Spain is contemplating the introduction of stricter rules for asylum seekers in Ceuta, a North African territory, following a mass influx of migrants in July, Reuters reported. The draft decree reveals plans to expedite asylum applications and deportations for the thousands of migrants who remain in Ceuta. This move, however, is causing uproar among legal experts and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The draft, which has not yet been confirmed, would require asylum seekers appealing a rejected application to do so from outside the country, provided the EU considers it safe. This rule would be applied retroactively to those arriving since the July 30 and 31 mass crossing. Additionally, the government could bypass a review by a commission with representatives from the UN refugee agency.

Migrants would have their applications withdrawn if they become unreachable for five days or if they are deemed violent or threatening. Interior Minister Angel Victor Torres hinted at the possibility of a legislative amendment to shorten processing times, but acknowledged the challenge due to international law concerns. The draft has been met with strong criticism from Spanish lawyers and NGOs, including the Commission for Assistance to Refugees (CEAR) and Oxfam, who argue it poses a significant threat to Spain's commitment to human rights conventions.