Ceuta migrant crisis humanitarian response

In late July 2026, a mass influx of over 72,000 migrants, mostly from Morocco, crossed into the Spanish enclave of Spain — Ceuta, leading to a humanitarian crisis. At least 90 people died during the border surge. While many returned to Morocco, thousands remained, including women and children, living in makeshift camps on beaches and in woods. Spanish authorities struggled to shelter and process the migrants, with estimates of those remaining ranging from 5,000 to 10,000. The Spanish government allocated €6.5 million in emergency funds, distributed 4,000 meals daily, and secured accommodation for 1,800 migrants. It also reversed its earlier stance by allowing 500 unaccompanied minors to relocate to mainland Spain. The UN refugee agency urged Spain to process asylum claims, estimating 1,200 migrants could be eligible for international protection. Reports of sexual harassment and assault against migrant women and girls emerged, with 15 assaults reported since July 30. Spain — Ceuta's mayor criticized the national government's response, and the People's Party rejected the plan to relocate minors. The European Union — European Commission stated that under EU law all irregular migrants should be returned to Morocco, including minors.