Concerns Over Morocco's Immigration Stance

Javier Zarzalejos, the president of the European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, expressed significant skepticism regarding Morocco's intentions concerning the minors who recently crossed into Spain via Ceuta. During an interview with Canal Sur, Zarzalejos noted a considerable discrepancy between Morocco's stated objectives and its actions, particularly following the request for the repatriation of all immigrants who entered Spain on July 30.

Zarzalejos highlighted the vulnerable situation of these minors, stressing the urgent need to assess their health conditions and the heightened risks faced by girls, who may be particularly susceptible to sexual abuse. He asserted that the situation requires careful handling to ensure their safety and well-being.

Legal Framework for Minors in Immigration

As a member of the Popular Party, Zarzalejos is at the forefront of negotiations related to the recent immigrant return regulation approved by the European Parliament. This directive mandates that individuals who illegally remain in Ceuta, including minors, should be returned to their home countries. The European Commission's spokesman for internal affairs, Markus Lammert, reiterated this expectation, emphasizing that the return of minors is justified under the European regulation.

Zarzalejos also underscored that European legal mechanisms are designed not only to facilitate returns but also to ensure the minors' rights are protected. These include provisions for family reunification, social services support in their countries of origin, and the possibility of asylum for those who seek it. In the case of granted asylum, the responsibility for the minors transitions to the state.

Moreover, the new regulations, which strengthen return policies and establish deportation centers outside the European Union, explicitly exclude unaccompanied minors from such agreements with third countries. This framework does, however, introduce biometric controls to verify minors’ ages, with detention only as a last resort and for the shortest duration possible, capped at 24 months.

As reported by eldebate.com.