EU Praises Spain's Quick Response to Migration Crisis in Ceuta

The EU commended Spain's swift response to the migration crisis in Ceuta, while other countries imposed restrictions and criticized the handling of the incident

On August 4, 2026, the European Union praised Spain's "swift response" to the intense migratory flow that hit Ceuta between July 30 and 31. The meeting of EU interior ministers, convened after criticism from some member states, highlighted the need for a united European response.

Spain's Quick Response Praised by EU

Fernando Grande-Marlaska, Spain's Interior Minister, reported that around 72,000 migrants crossed into Spanish territory in North Africa. The minister himself stated that, to date, approximately 70,000 people have been returned to Morocco.

Migration Flow and Death Toll

At least 75 people lost their lives on the Spanish side of the border, while 11 deaths were recorded in Morocco. Spanish authorities reported that there are still migrants in Ceuta, with around 800 children being held in local facilities.

Reactions from European Countries and Measures Taken

Italy described the images from Ceuta as "shocking" and suspended the Schengen agreement with Spain, limiting controls to flights. Finland and Denmark supported the Italian measure, while Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš called for the temporary suspension of Spain's participation in the Schengen area. Irish Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan, who chaired the meeting, emphasized that migration requires "a united European response".

Financial Support and Criticism of Migrant Treatment

EU Commissioner Magnus Brunner qualified the situation as a "test" of border resilience and security, stating that the test was "passed". The EU offered emergency financial support to strengthen Spain's borders. Grande-Marlaska guaranteed that the rights of all migrants, especially minors, were being respected, and highlighted the allocation of around 25 million euros to support children in Ceuta.

Perspectives and Border Control

Denmark's Immigration Minister, Morten Bødskov, stated that he was "very satisfied" with the speed of Spain's response, but emphasized that the incident demonstrates the importance of controlling EU borders. Grande-Marlaska expressed hope that Italy would suspend any additional controls "as soon as possible" and reiterated the commitment to work "firmly" with Morocco to prevent new violations.

With information from BBC News.