In late August 2026, a surge of migrants attempting to cross into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco has reignited a political crisis. The situation has led some EU member states, notably Italy, to call for Spain's temporary exclusion from the Schengen Area, arguing that Spain has failed to secure the EU's external border.
However, legal experts point out that the Schengen Borders Code does not provide for the suspension of a member state's membership. While Article 29 allows for the reintroduction of internal border controls in exceptional circumstances, it does not permit the expulsion of a country from the Schengen zone. Any such move would require a treaty change, which is highly unlikely given the need for unanimous consent.
The European Commission has urged calm and emphasized the need for a coordinated EU response. It has offered support to Spain, including Frontex assistance, to manage the border. Meanwhile, Spain has defended its actions, stating that it has increased border patrols and is working with Morocco to address the root causes of migration.
The crisis has also sparked a broader debate about the EU's migration policy and the solidarity among member states. While some countries support Italy's hardline stance, others caution against punitive measures that could undermine the principle of free movement. As of now, no formal proposal has been tabled to exclude Spain, and the issue remains a topic of diplomatic tension.
