Public Opinion in Spain on Migration Crisis
A recent poll indicates that a significant majority of Spaniards—nine out of ten—believe that Morocco is responsible for the influx of illegal migrants into Ceuta. This finding sharply contrasts with the perspective of socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who has suggested that there isn’t sufficient evidence to implicate the Moroccan government in this situation.
The survey, conducted by polling firm 40dB, revealed that many Spaniards are opposed to mass migration and are calling for stricter border controls, particularly concerning their North African neighbor. Released on Monday for the Spanish newspaper El País and radio station Cadena Ser, the poll found that 89 percent of respondents feel Morocco bears significant responsibility for the crisis. Moreover, 72 percent also blame the Spanish central government, led by Sánchez.
The timing of the survey is noteworthy, as it was conducted shortly before a damning report from the Spanish National Police accused Moroccan agents of orchestrating a large-scale migrant invasion in late July. The newspaper noted that public sentiment regarding Morocco’s involvement might shift even further in light of this report.
In a recent address to the Spanish Congress, Sánchez insisted that there is no solid proof tying the Moroccan government to the Ceuta crisis, despite widespread criticism of his administration’s handling of the situation. When asked about the government’s response to the crisis, 63 percent of those surveyed labeled Sánchez’s performance as “bad,” with 49.9 percent deeming it “very bad.” Only 14.2 percent offered a positive assessment of the government’s actions.
The survey results also displayed a strong inclination among Spaniards for a more stringent immigration policy. Participants were presented with two scenarios: either to tighten border controls, potentially preventing vulnerable people from seeking refuge, or to prioritize accepting those in need, even if it meant accepting more immigrants. A notable 70 percent opted for the first approach, while just 20 percent went for the latter.
Additionally, the poll indicated that 80 percent of respondents support increasing the number of border fences and surveillance efforts and expediting deportations of undocumented migrants. On the other hand, only 40 percent expressed agreement with allocating more resources for the housing and processing of asylum seekers.
When asked about their views on immigration overall, 54 percent of participants reported a negative perception of immigration in Spain, while 33 percent viewed it positively. Furthermore, the poll explored which political party respondents trust to manage immigration effectively. The far-right VOX party emerged as the top choice for 27 percent, followed by the ruling Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) at 18.5 percent, and 14 percent favoring the center-right People’s Party (PP). This preference for VOX appears to be influenced by a portion of PP and PSOE voters who see it as the most capable party regarding immigration management.
