Following an unprecedented surge of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, authorities in Rabat have affirmed their commitment to facilitating the return of unaccompanied minors currently stranded there.
Morocco has taken a proactive stance, declaring its readiness to cooperate in repatriating minors who arrived in Ceuta without guardians during the recent influx of tens of thousands of migrants. However, the initiative faces legal hurdles on the Spanish side, as reported by a diplomatic source.
The Moroccan government has reiterated its pledge to identify and assist in the return of these minors to their home country, emphasizing collaboration with Spanish and European partners to achieve this goal. A source from the official Moroccan news agency conveyed this commitment under anonymity, stressing that these partners must “address internal challenges, including legislative and administrative barriers, to overcome the obstacles hindering this effort.”
Record migration surge overwhelms Ceuta
In a span of just a few days in late July, approximately 72,000 migrants illegally entered Ceuta, setting a new record for the enclave. Authorities in Madrid reported that around 70,000 of these individuals have since returned to Morocco. The remaining migrants, including over 1,000 unaccompanied minors, remain in Ceuta, as forced returns are not permitted under current regulations.
Local officials in Ceuta have raised concerns about the vulnerability of these minors, many of whom face risks such as exploitation, trafficking, and mistreatment. Civil society groups have also sounded the alarm, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.
A total of at least 80 lives have been lost, primarily due to drowning, according to a Spanish forensic medicine commission. Meanwhile, Moroccan authorities have confirmed that 11 individuals perished on the Moroccan side of the border.
