Spain moves 500 migrant minors from Ceuta despite EU pressure

The interior ministry reported that 2,500 unaccompanied minors have arrived in the North African enclave since July 30, when tens of thousands crossed the border. Save the Children places that figure closer to 4,000, noting that most are sleeping outdoors because local facilities are overwhelmed. The Spanish Commission for Refugees pointed out that the city’s infrastructure is designed to accommodate only 29 children, leaving it operating at 75 times its intended capacity.

Despite these conditions, EU Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert stated on August 18 that the expectation remains for all those in Ceuta illegally to be returned to Morocco. This stance aligns with right-wing factions in the Spanish parliament, which have pushed for the immediate expulsion of all irregular arrivals. However, the Spanish Immigration Act explicitly requires that unaccompanied minors be placed under the care of local child-protection services. In response to the crisis, Madrid is negotiating with regional authorities on the mainland to absorb a portion of the population, prioritizing young girls and those in the most precarious circumstances, while Ceuta will retain responsibility for another 500 minors.