Rabat urges cooperation with Madrid
Morocco has affirmed its readiness to assist in identifying unaccompanied minors within the Spanish enclave of Ceuta to facilitate their safe return. A Moroccan diplomatic source indicated the kingdom’s intention to engage with Spanish authorities and European partners to execute this initiative. Nevertheless, Rabat perceives Spanish administrative and judicial protocols as the chief impediment, currently preventing the return of these children.
Over one thousand minors remain in Ceuta
Following the irregular entry of approximately 72,000 migrants into Ceuta over several days in late July, Spanish authorities reported that nearly 70,000 individuals have since returned to Morocco. According to the Ceuta administration, around 2,000 migrants are still present in the enclave, with more than 1,000 identified as unaccompanied minors. Several child rights advocacy groups have raised serious concerns regarding the potential for exploitation, trafficking, and abuse these vulnerable young people might face.
A tragic human cost
The recent migratory crisis has tragically claimed numerous lives. A Spanish commission of forensic specialists determined that at least 80 individuals perished, primarily due to drowning. Moroccan officials, for their part, have reported 11 fatalities on the Moroccan side of the border.
