The European Commission confirmed on Tuesday that all individuals present illegally in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta will be returned to Morocco, following a mass influx of migrants that occurred in late July. The announcement specifically addresses the situation of unaccompanied minors, who are among those to be repatriated.
A Commission spokesperson stated that the priority for Spanish and Moroccan authorities is to ensure the safe and orderly return of these individuals, in full respect of international and EU law. The spokesperson emphasized that the EU supports the efforts of both countries to manage migration and protect the rights of children.
The Spanish government has been working with Moroccan authorities to process the returns, which have been ongoing since the peak of the influx. According to Spanish officials, the number of migrants who entered Ceuta irregularly in late July was in the hundreds, though exact figures have not been officially released.
Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the repatriation of unaccompanied minors, urging that their best interests be considered and that they be provided with adequate reception conditions upon return. The Commission has reiterated that any return must comply with the principle of non-refoulement and the EU's legal framework on asylum and migration.
As of mid-August, the situation in Ceuta has largely stabilized, with a reduced number of new arrivals. The EU has pledged continued support to Spain and Morocco in addressing the root causes of migration and enhancing border management cooperation.
