Spain’s rush to clear Ceuta migrant backlog raises rights concerns

A surge in Spain's effort to resolve the Ceuta migrant backlog has sparked concerns over human rights violations. Since mid-August, over 12,000 migrants have opted to return to Morocco from Ceuta, a North African enclave bordering Spain. Fatna, a 21-year-old expecting a disabled son, initially hoped to receive assistance upon arrival in Ceuta on July 30, but with no progress after three months, her baby girl's kidney issues are causing urgent need for medical treatment in mainland Spain.

However, obtaining a permit to travel while her asylum claim is under review requires permission from Spain's socialist government, which has been hesitant to grant it to the thousands of migrants still in Ceuta. The government, under Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, is under pressure from the EU and a frustrated populace to address the crisis and faces an upcoming election on Nov 29.

It is working on expediting asylum applications, aiming to send most people back to Morocco on the basis of being economic migrants rather than genuine asylum-seekers, potentially violating migrants' rights. Over 20 interviews with Reuters reveal that many of those remaining have valid asylum claims or humanitarian protection, including unaccompanied minors, LGBT Moroccans fearing persecution, and families considered vulnerable under EU law.

NGOs have filed a complaint with Spain's ombudsman alleging grave rights violations, such as the forced return of migrants from conflict-hit countries and denial of interpreters and legal assistance.