Concerns Over Family Reunification of Unaccompanied Minors from Ceuta
Recent statements from Spain’s Ministry of Youth and Childhood cast doubt on Morocco's willingness to facilitate the reunification of unaccompanied migrant minors who have arrived in Ceuta with their families. The ministry expressed concerns regarding Morocco's lack of response to previous requests for family reunification made prior to the recent migrant influx in late July. Officials noted that since 2021, a total of 600 cases have been submitted to Morocco without any acknowledgment or response, leading the Spanish government to be skeptical about the likelihood of a different outcome this time around.
In private discussions, the autonomous government of Ceuta is reportedly aware of the Ministry's intentions to relocate these children and adolescents. However, they are hesitant to act, fearing potential political repercussions from the Popular Party (PP). The ministry is currently processing the first ten cases of minors, which will determine whether they can be reunited with their families, remain under guardianship in Ceuta, or be transferred to other regions. The delays in these processes have been attributed to the implementation of the European Migration and Asylum Pact (PEMA) and political gridlock caused by the PP.
Despite these challenges, the ministry has indicated that the relocation mechanism established by the government in 2025 is poised to begin functioning with these initial cases. This mechanism could allow for the transfer of children and adolescents within a couple of months, although sources have indicated that alternative methods are also being explored, which could expedite the protection of these minors within days.
One such alternative is through bilateral agreements between regions; for instance, a recent agreement between Ceuta and Navarra will enable the family placement of five girls in the destination community. The government estimates that around 500 migrant girls who arrived alone in Ceuta could be relocated through social entities, pending Ceuta's approval, as the government has already confirmed the availability of spaces with NGOs. If this approval is granted, transfers could begin imminently.
The ministry plans to convene a new Sectorial Conference on Childhood and Adolescence to outline the technical and legal details of the voluntary reception plan, and if necessary, activate the royal decree law. Prioritization will be given to younger children who have expressed a desire to return to Morocco, along with other vulnerable groups, including refugees and girls who have experienced sexual violence. This complex process necessitates interviews with minors and the appointment of legal representatives, a requirement under the European Migration and Asylum Pact. However, Ceuta has not cooperated effectively in this regard, according to ministerial sources.
To facilitate these processes, the government has committed to covering the costs associated with appointing a representative for the minors, despite considering it primarily the responsibility of the autonomous government. The Ministry holds Europe accountable for its migration policies and expresses concern over the fact that Spain's border is effectively managed by a third country, Morocco.
As reported by efe.com.
