In May 2021, thousands of migrants and refugees crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, sparking a diplomatic crisis and raising questions about EU migration policy. According to a Eurobarometer survey conducted in 2021, a majority of EU citizens expressed solidarity with refugees, but views varied widely across member states.
The survey found that 72% of EU citizens supported a common European asylum system, while 64% believed that the EU should provide humanitarian aid to refugees. However, concerns about security and integration were also prominent, with 58% expressing worry about the potential impact on public services.
In Spain, the crisis led to a political debate, with the government facing criticism for its handling of the situation. The EU called for a coordinated response, emphasizing the need for solidarity and burden-sharing among member states.
As of 2026, the situation in Ceuta remains a point of contention, with periodic spikes in crossings. The EU continues to work on reforming its migration and asylum policies, aiming to balance humanitarian obligations with security concerns.
