Morocco's Migration Strategy Linked to National Celebrations
The National Immigration and Border Center (CENIF) issued a warning on July 28 regarding a "relative" risk of illegal crossings by swimming into Spanish territories, specifically timed with Morocco's Throne Day celebration on July 30. This alert came amid concerns about a possible geopolitical pattern that links the increase in mass crossings at the end of July with national festivities in Morocco. The police noted that, alongside the temporary relaxation of Moroccan border controls and a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding migrant returns, there was an underlying "will" to strengthen the perception of Morocco’s dependency on Spain and the European Union in managing migration during King Mohamed VI's speech.
Police Report Identifies Political Pressure Mechanisms
In a subsequent report dated July 29, CENIF interpreted the temporary easing of border controls by Moroccan gendarmes as a form of "political pressure mechanism." This strategy appeared to exploit the knowledge of migrant groups congregating near the border, indicating a permissive approach by Moroccan authorities. The police highlighted these swimming entries as the "main focus of risk and incidence," underscoring the potential for increased migration pressure coinciding with political events.
As reported by publico.es.
