Spain’s Migrant Situation in Ceuta

Spain’s government has indicated that over 5,000 undocumented migrants are still in Ceuta following a recent surge in immigration. The report suggests that everyone remaining may be eligible for asylum.

This figure reportedly includes about 2,500 potential asylum seekers, along with a similar number of unaccompanied minors who qualify for protection under Spanish law. An anonymous government source shared this information with a newspaper. Just days before, officials had mentioned plans to send back all migrants who crossed into Ceuta.

In recent updates, authorities revised the number of illegal migrants entering Ceuta during the late July events, increasing it from around 49,000 to 72,000 and more recently estimating it at 80,000. This means that the population of Ceuta—around 83,000—essentially doubled overnight during this significant influx.

Interestingly, the estimated number of illegal immigrants still in Ceuta has risen as well. The Minister of the Interior had previously reported about “2,000” migrants remaining after the influx. However, based on reports from informed sources, it appears that closer to 8,000 immigrants are still present in the territory, which represents about 10 percent of Ceuta’s population. The government is also considering a possible error margin of 7,000 to 9,000.

Out of these, officials have confirmed that roughly 5,000 individuals are eligible for asylum or other types of protection under Spanish law. Many of the sub-Saharan migrants currently on El Trampoline Beach in Ceuta might “likely seek asylum,” which will be evaluated individually.

The other half includes approximately 2,500 unaccompanied minors, whom Spanish law requires to protect. So far, only a limited number of minors have asked for help to reunite with their families. An anonymous government source noted that of the 2,500 minors, 600 are girls, and around 400 are children under 13 years old.

Spain’s Youth Minister has highlighted the urgent need for assistance, stating that the situation is becoming more pressing as time passes. She emphasized the importance of extending care to those entitled, given the potential risks if the emergency continues.

Sources indicate that among the remaining 8,000 migrants, about 3,000 are classified as economic migrants, primarily Moroccan adults and nationals from other countries. These individuals reportedly do not meet the criteria for asylum in Spain and may face deportation.

As of now, the Spanish government has not provided any official statements regarding these figures. According to recent reports, there is considerable disparity between what various parties are claiming. For instance, about 1,400 minors are believed to still be in Ceuta following the late July situation. Morocco’s justice minister recently mentioned the desire to ensure a safe return for all Moroccan minors currently on Spanish soil, including those who crossed during the recent events.

Additionally, Spain’s Foreign Minister has repeated that all undocumented immigrants who enter Ceuta will be “deported,” a statement made during a visit to the enclave.

While the Spanish government estimates around “8,000” migrants still in Ceuta, local official Juan Jesús Vivas has suggested that this number may be closer to 10,000.