In late July 2026, a record number of migrants—72,000—entered the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in just a few days, according to Spanish authorities. Most were quickly returned to Morocco, with the Spanish Interior Ministry reporting that 70,000 had been sent back.
Among those who remained are unaccompanied minors, some as young as 10 years old. NGOs on the ground have expressed grave concerns that these children are at high risk of abuse and exploitation. "Most of them are not even 14 years old," said a spokesperson for a local charity, highlighting the vulnerability of the group.
The situation has sparked international attention, with human rights organizations urging both Spain and Morocco to ensure the protection of migrant children. The Spanish government has stated it is working to identify and shelter the minors, but NGOs argue that more comprehensive measures are needed to prevent trafficking and abuse.
This crisis underscores the ongoing challenges of migration in the region, as Ceuta and Melilla remain flashpoints for irregular border crossings. The UN has called for a coordinated response to safeguard the rights of all migrants, especially children.
