Thousands of Migrants in Ceuta Wait in Limbo While Spain Figures Out What to Do with Them

Migrants who arrived in the Spanish territory of Ceuta weeks ago are now waiting in limbo, with many sleeping on beaches and guarding their few belongings. Spanish police have escorted some to makeshift shelters, but others continue to search through discarded items for anything useful, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Ceuta, a small Spanish territory bordering Morocco, saw an influx of over 72,000 people. While many returned to Morocco due to the difficulties of staying, an estimated 9,000 to 10,000 migrants, including 2,000 minors, remain. City officials base this figure on daily food rations, though Spain's interior ministry estimates around 5,000.

The UN refugee agency has pointed out significant humanitarian and operational challenges, including access to shelter, basic services, and food. While most recent arrivals are from Morocco, others hail from Sudan, Mali, and Yemen. The agency urges Spanish authorities to process asylum claims, noting that about 1,200 migrants may be eligible for international protection.

Spain's government is working to house the remaining migrants and restore normalcy. They have secured space for 1,800 in a parking lot and a military facility and are seeking more locations. Despite these efforts, migrants continue to be seen roaming the streets, while hundreds of women and minors are sheltered in local centers. Some migrants, like 20-year-old Khadija Rifai from Morocco, express uncertainty about plans for adults, noting that minors and youngsters are receiving more immediate assistance.

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They help the minors and the youngsters, but they haven’t found any solutions for us.