Spanish police have moved thousands of migrants, who had been gathered on beaches and in hills in the Spanish territory of Ceuta, to makeshift shelters. The scene highlights an ongoing humanitarian situation in the small territory neighboring Morocco, where up to 10,000 migrants remained weeks after an initial surge saw more than 72,000 people cross the border.
While many migrants returned to Morocco shortly after the initial influx, thousands stayed, seeking refuge on beaches, in hills, and outside a migrant reception center. City officials estimate that between 9,000 and 10,000 migrants, including approximately 2,000 minors, could still be in Ceuta, based on daily food ration distribution by aid groups. Spain's interior ministry, however, estimates the number to be around 5,000.
The United Nations refugee agency has noted significant humanitarian and operational challenges in Ceuta, particularly concerning access to shelter, food, and basic services. The majority of those who arrived in late July were from Morocco, but the group also includes individuals from Sudan, Mali, and Yemen.
The U.N. refugee agency has urged the Spanish government to expedite the processing of asylum claims, estimating that about 1,200 migrants in Ceuta may be eligible for international protection. Spanish authorities stated they are working to house the remaining migrants and restore normalcy to the city. On Thursday, Spain's Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, Elma Saiz, announced that space had been secured for 1,800 migrants in a parking lot and a military facility.
Despite these efforts, migrants were observed roaming the streets, and hundreds of women and minors were sheltering in local makeshift centers. Some migrants expressed frustration, noting that while minors receive assistance, solutions for adults remain elusive. Khadija Rifai, a 20-year-old from Morocco, shared her experience of swimming to Ceuta with her husband in search of better opportunities, only for him to be sent back. She hopes to eventually reach mainland Spain.
Ceuta's Mayor, Juan Jesús Vivas, criticized the national government's response, suggesting it has not done enough to manage the situation. The migration ministry has allocated 6.5 million euros ($7.6 million) in emergency funds and reported distributing 4,000 meals daily to migrants since August 3.
Spanish officials emphasize the need to process each case individually. This involves police identifying illegal entrants, verifying nationalities and backgrounds, determining eligibility for international protection, and establishing who must leave the territory. Migrants themselves have gathered in protest, carrying signs requesting asylum and Spanish flags, indicating their willingness to wait for a resolution.