Following the sudden influx of thousands of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, Moroccan authorities have announced their willingness to assist in the return of unaccompanied minors.

Morocco has responded swiftly to the migration surge. Officials in Rabat confirmed their readiness to facilitate the repatriation of unaccompanied minors currently stranded in Ceuta after tens of thousands crossed illegally from Moroccan territory. However, they highlighted legal hurdles on the Spanish side that complicate the process, as stated by a diplomatic source speaking to the Maghreb Arabe Presse news agency.

The Moroccan government has pledged to identify and assist in the return of these children to their home countries, emphasizing collaboration with Spanish and European partners to ensure a smooth operation. A diplomatic representative noted, “Our counterparts must address internal challenges, including legislative, administrative, and judicial barriers, to make this repatriation possible.”

Record surge of migrants in Ceuta

In just a few days at the end of July, approximately 72,000 migrants illegally entered Ceuta, setting an unprecedented record. Authorities in Madrid reported that around 70,000 have since returned to Morocco. However, the remaining individuals, including over 1,000 unaccompanied minors, remain in Ceuta, as local laws prevent their forced expulsion.

Local officials in Ceuta confirmed that out of the roughly 2,000 people still present, more than half are unaccompanied minors whose nationalities remain unspecified. Civil society groups have raised urgent concerns about the vulnerabilities these children face, including exploitation, human trafficking, and abuse.

Tragedy has also marked this migration wave. Spanish forensic experts reported at least 80 deaths, primarily due to drowning. Meanwhile, Moroccan authorities confirmed 11 fatalities on their side of the border.