Karol Darmoros, Stefano Leszczynski
Swimming to Ceuta
The Spanish enclave of Ceuta, located on the northern coast of Morocco, has once again come under heavy migration pressure. This is the largest influx into the autonomous city since May 2021, when over 10,000 people crossed into Spanish territory within two days.
Some migrants reached Ceuta by swimming or on inflatable mattresses, while others crossed the border checkpoint. Hundreds more gathered in the nearby Moroccan city of Fnideq. According to reports from the scene, their influx may have been linked to rumors about the border opening.
Overcrowded centers
The President of Ceuta, Juan Vivas, speaks of an “absolute humanitarian and social crisis.” The centers receiving migrants are overcrowded. According to local authorities, more than 1,500 people have arrived by sea in recent days, averaging about 200 per day. Among them are many minors.
Madrid negotiates returns
The Spanish government has announced an agreement with the Moroccan authorities regarding the repatriation “as quickly as possible” of individuals who entered Ceuta irregularly. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the use of all available means and the strengthening of cooperation with Rabat and international organizations.
Spain’s Ministry of the Interior links the mass influx to the activities of human smuggling networks. At the same time, it assures that cooperation between Madrid and Rabat on migration issues remains strong.
The border of Europe and Africa
Ceuta and Melilla form the European Union’s only land border with Africa. Their location makes them one of the main pressure points on migration routes leading to Europe.
