Following a sudden surge of migrants from Morocco into Spain’s Ceuta enclave, Moroccan authorities have announced their willingness to assist in the repatriation of unaccompanied minors.
Morocco has responded swiftly to the crisis unfolding in Ceuta. Officials in Rabat confirmed their readiness to collaborate on the return of unaccompanied minors who arrived in the Spanish territory after thousands crossed from Morocco. However, they emphasized that legal hurdles on the Spanish side may complicate the process, as stated by a diplomatic source.
Under their commitment, Moroccan authorities pledged to identify and facilitate the return of these minors to their home countries, while working closely with Spanish and European partners. A diplomatic source, speaking anonymously to the official Moroccan news agency MAP, highlighted the need for these partners to resolve internal legal and administrative barriers that currently obstruct the operation.
Ceuta records unprecedented migration surge
In a matter of days in late July, Ceuta witnessed an extraordinary influx of migrants, with official figures indicating over 72,000 people illegally entering the enclave—a record in such a short period. Authorities in Madrid reported that approximately 70,000 of these migrants have already been returned to Morocco. However, the remaining individuals, including minors, are stranded in Ceuta due to legal restrictions preventing their expulsion.
According to local administration data, of the roughly 2,000 people still present in Ceuta, more than 1,000 are unaccompanied minors. Their countries of origin have not been disclosed. Civil society groups have raised urgent concerns about the vulnerabilities these children face, including risks of exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.
Tragically, the crisis has already claimed lives. Spanish forensic experts confirmed that at least 80 individuals, primarily due to drowning, have died during the crossing. Meanwhile, Moroccan authorities reported 11 fatalities on their side of the border.
