Migrants stranded in Ceuta as Spain struggles with response

Thousands of migrants are stranded in the Spanish territory of Ceuta, facing an uncertain future weeks after an unprecedented surge of arrivals from Morocco. Many have been living in makeshift conditions on beaches and in the woods, relying on aid groups for basic necessities.

Spanish authorities are grappling with the humanitarian crisis, struggling to provide adequate shelter and even ascertain the precise number of migrants remaining in the city of 84,000. While some migrants returned to Morocco after realizing the difficulties of staying in Ceuta, an estimated 9,000 to 10,000, including approximately 2,000 minors, are believed to still be in the city, according to city officials. The Spanish interior ministry offers a lower estimate of around 5,000.

The UN refugee agency has highlighted significant humanitarian and operational challenges, particularly concerning access to shelter, food, and essential services. While most arrivals in late July were from Morocco, the enclave also saw people from Sudan, Mali, and Yemen. The agency urged Spanish authorities to expedite asylum claim processing, estimating that about 1,200 migrants in Ceuta might qualify for international protection.

Spain's government is working to house the remaining migrants and restore normalcy. Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration Elma Saiz announced that space for 1,800 migrants has been secured in a parking lot and a military facility, with efforts underway to find more accommodation. Despite these measures, migrants were still seen roaming the streets, while hundreds of women and minors found shelter in local-run centers. Khadija Rifai, a 20-year-old Moroccan woman, expressed uncertainty about the government's plans for adults like her, noting that while minors receive help, the future for others remains unclear.

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They help the minors and the youngsters, but they haven’t found a solution for us adults.