European Parliament Takes a Firm Stand on Ceuta Migration Crisis
On September 17, 2026, the European Parliament voiced its condemnation of the massive influx of migrants into Ceuta on July 30, labeling the situation as an "invasion" and demanding that Morocco uphold the sovereignty of the Spanish autonomous city. This resolution, spearheaded by the European People's Party (EPP), garnered substantial support, particularly from far-right factions, while facing opposition from socialists. The vote saw 339 in favor—backed by the EPP, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), and far-right groups such as Patriots of Europe and Europe of Sovereign Nations—against 225 votes opposed, primarily from social democrats, Greens, and the Left group. The liberal members displayed divided sentiments, leading to 16 abstentions.
The Socialist Party's delegation in the European Parliament articulated their rationale for voting against the resolution, emphasizing that it contained "offensive language" that did not reflect the truth and criticized the Spanish government. Initially, social democrats and popular members aimed to craft a unified European message of support for Ceuta; however, consensus proved elusive in the end.
Juan Fernando López Aguilar, a socialist MEP, criticized the EPP for forging an alliance with far-right groups, creating a majority that promotes offensive rhetoric without offering viable solutions for Ceuta. He highlighted the party's approach as one that seeks to assign blame rather than provide constructive support to the Spanish government, which he deemed unacceptable. The socialist group, he noted, cannot endorse measures that lack proper procedure, such as the expulsion of unaccompanied minors, and pointed to the binding commitments set forth by the Migration and Asylum Pact, which applies to all EU member states, including Spain.
Urgent Measures and Responsibility
The approved resolution explicitly utilizes the term "invasion" and calls for Morocco to take responsibility for border control and the repatriation of individuals who crossed into the autonomous city. Additionally, it urges the Spanish government to urgently implement all necessary measures to restore normalcy in Ceuta, which includes increased security support and the activation of European mechanisms to expedite the return of migrants.
The European Parliament emphasizes that relations with Morocco must be founded on the unconditional respect for the territorial integrity of EU member states, a fundamental principle of international law and a prerequisite for cooperation.
As reported by elcorreo.com.
