In response to the surge of migrants crossing from Morocco into Spain’s Ceuta enclave, Moroccan authorities have confirmed their readiness to facilitate the return of unaccompanied minors.
Rabat has made it clear that while it stands prepared to assist in the repatriation of unaccompanied minors currently in Ceuta following the recent influx of tens of thousands of migrants from Moroccan territory, Spanish legal hurdles remain a significant barrier. A diplomatic source, speaking anonymously to the official Moroccan news agency MAP, stated that Morocco is committed to identifying and facilitating the return of these minors to their home country, in close coordination with Spanish and European partners.
However, the source emphasized that these partners must first address internal challenges, particularly legislative and administrative obstacles that complicate the process.
Unprecedented surge of 72,000 migrants into Ceuta
Over just a few days at the end of July, Ceuta witnessed an extraordinary surge of migration, with approximately 72,000 individuals crossing irregularly. Official figures from Madrid indicate that 70,000 of these migrants have since been returned to Morocco. The remaining 2,000 individuals, including over 1,000 unaccompanied minors, remain in Ceuta, as Spanish law prohibits their expulsion. The nationalities of these minors have not been disclosed.
Concerns have been raised by local organizations regarding the heightened vulnerabilities faced by these children, including risks of exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.
Tragically, the crisis has already claimed lives, with at least 80 fatalities recorded, primarily due to drowning, according to Spanish forensic experts. Moroccan authorities, meanwhile, have reported 11 deaths on their side of the border.
