Morocco's Stance on Irregular Migration: A Shared Responsibility
A Moroccan official emphasized on Monday that addressing irregular migration is a shared responsibility among the concerned parties, underscoring that the kingdom has shouldered its share of this responsibility. This statement marks the second official declaration from Rabat following a surge in mass migration towards the Spanish-administered city of Ceuta, and follows a press conference held by the Moroccan Ministry of Interior on Sunday.
The Moroccan news agency quoted an unnamed government official who stated that the kingdom has remained a sovereign, loyal, and responsible partner in combating irregular migration. He affirmed that Morocco has never succumbed to pressure, nor has it ever acted out of coercion or under duress.
The official further declared that "commitment and responsibility have always been the fundamental driving forces behind our efforts," acknowledging that migration is a complex phenomenon that requires all parties to assume their responsibilities, which Morocco fully embraces. He noted that this commitment is evident through tangible results for all involved, even if some perceive these results as self-evident without recognizing the magnitude of the accomplishments represented.
He highlighted that substantial human, technical, and financial resources have been mobilized for this purpose, and cooperation between Morocco and the Spanish government is considered exemplary. The official reiterated that addressing the issue of irregular migration is a shared responsibility, and the kingdom has been diligent in fulfilling its part.
In reviewing the results of the efforts made, the official reported that 74,000 attempts at irregular migration were thwarted in 2025, following 79,000 attempts in 2024. Additionally, 632 networks involved in irregular migration were dismantled during 2024 and 2025, alongside the successful execution of over 32,000 rescue operations at sea during the same period.
On Sunday, the Moroccan Ministry of Interior announced that approximately 40,000 individuals attempted to reach Ceuta through irregular means, incidents that resulted in the tragic deaths of 11 individuals. The ministry added that Moroccan authorities continue to work with their Spanish counterparts to verify reports concerning the fatalities, the actual number of individuals involved, and their identities.
As reported by elaph.com.
