Spain and Morocco have strengthened the border fence of a Spanish enclave to prevent mass crossings after a significant influx of people by sea and land. The leader of the Spanish enclave in North Africa, Juan Jesus Vivas, reported that around 60,000 individuals had entered Ceuta in recent days, resulting in the death of at least 57 people.
By 6 p.m. local time on Friday, approximately 48,300 migrants had voluntarily returned to Morocco, as confirmed by Spain’s Interior Ministry. The sudden surge of migrants into Ceuta, a small Spanish territory protruding into the Mediterranean from Morocco, caused concern and discord in Europe. France announced increased border checks with Spain, while Italy threatened to suspend Spain from the EU’s internal open border scheme.
Moroccan authorities at the gates of Ceuta used water cannon trucks, batons, and tear gas to deter further crossings. Spanish officials pledged to expedite the expulsion of those who entered illegally, despite a court ruling imposing restrictions on immediate expulsions under special “border rejection” regulations.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the mass crossings as a violation of Spain’s territorial sovereignty and urged Morocco to enhance its efforts to control the movement of people. Ceuta and Melilla, another Spanish autonomous city in northern Morocco, are the only EU territories with land borders in Africa.
The surge in attempted crossings was attributed to various factors, including a recent ruling by Spain’s Supreme Court preventing the summary return of migrants intercepted at sea while heading to Ceuta or Melilla. Migrants often swim from Moroccan towns like Fnideq or Belyounech to reach Ceuta, facing challenges from security forces on both sides of the border.
Migration is a contentious issue in Europe, especially following the 2015 refugee crisis. European countries are tightening border security, with France increasing police presence on the Spanish border, while Finland and Italy consider suspending Schengen Area agreements with Spain. Amidst these developments, Spain’s government emphasizes the economic contributions of immigrants and has implemented initiatives to regularize their status.
The situation in Ceuta has sparked international reactions, with political leaders expressing concerns over border security and immigration policies. As the region grapples with the aftermath of the mass crossings, diplomatic tensions between Spain and Italy have emerged over differing views on immigration and border control strategies.