Why Spain’s Tiny Enclave of Ceuta Is at the Heart of Europe’s Migration Crisis

Spain deployed troops to Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed the border from neighbouring Morocco Thursday. Many migrants swam around border barriers, while others crossed directly through or climbed over fences.

At least 15 people reportedly died after drowning while attempting to reach the Spanish territory. Spanish authorities deployed military forces after thousands of migrants entered Ceuta through the border. Ceuta authorities urged Madrid to declare a national emergency as border controls completely collapsed. Rachid Sbihi, who represents Civil Guard officers, described the situation as absolute chaos. He said thousands of migrants crossed the frontier after overwhelming border security forces and barriers. Ceuta is a small Spanish territory situated along North Africa’s northern coast beside Morocco.

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Ceuta: Europe’s Border on African Soil

Although Ceuta lies in Africa, Spain controls the territory, making it part of Europe. Ceuta also belongs to the European Union, meaning migrants entering it reach EU territory. Alongside Melilla, Ceuta creates one of Europe’s only land borders directly connecting Africa. The territory has become a major migration flashpoint because thousands attempt reaching Spain each year. Many migrants seek better jobs and living conditions after escaping poverty, violence, and instability. Some migrants begin their journeys elsewhere in Africa before travelling toward Morocco and Ceuta. Many migrants start near Fnideq, a Moroccan town located roughly five kilometres from Ceuta. Others travel toward Belyounech, where migrants face a shorter route across toward Ceuta.

Some migrants climb border fences, while others cut through barriers using bolt cutters. In May 2021, more than 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta during only two days. Morocco had eased border controls amid tensions with Spain over the disputed Western Sahara. Spain has governed Ceuta since 1580, and approximately 85,000 people currently live there. Ceuta includes Christian and Muslim communities, alongside residents with Spanish and Moroccan backgrounds. Many Moroccan workers cross the border daily, while Morocco rejects Spain’s sovereignty over Ceuta. Morocco considers Ceuta and Melilla occupied Moroccan territories despite Spain’s long-standing administration there. Their location makes Ceuta a crucial gateway for migrants seeking entry into European territory.

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