In response to the influx of migrants in late July, Spain is set to transfer around 500 unaccompanied minors who are particularly vulnerable from the North African enclave of Ceuta to the mainland. Integration Minister Elma Saiz confirmed in an interview with the radio station RNE that the central government in Madrid is collaborating with local authorities in Ceuta and regional governments across the country to facilitate this initiative.

The minors will be cared for by child protection organizations in appropriate facilities on the mainland. According to media reports, there are plans for a "mandatory and cooperative reception of minors by all regions" of Spain, which may also include placement in foster families. The figure of approximately 500 minors is considered preliminary and may be subject to change.

Saiz noted that she could not disclose specific details about the plan at this time, emphasizing that all measures must prioritize the "overarching interest of the child." Ceuta will receive support amounting to €25 million to assist in this process. Additionally, Spain has applied for emergency funding from the European Union.

Since the mass arrival of migrants at the end of July, the Spanish National Police in Ceuta has identified 2,168 unaccompanied minors and handed them over to the authorities of the enclave, as reported by the state television channel RTVE.

At the end of July, it was estimated that up to 80,000 migrants had reached Ceuta, with most of them arriving by swimming across the Strait of Gibraltar. Shortly thereafter, the vast majority returned to Morocco. The latest official reports indicate that 83 bodies have been recovered from the sea, although NGOs estimate the death toll to be well over a hundred.

According to Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, approximately 5,000 migrants are still residing in Ceuta. The provision and accommodation for these individuals, who come not only from Morocco but also from countries south of the Sahara, continue to pose significant challenges for the authorities. There is particular concern for the unaccompanied minors who remain, many of whom are girls.

As reported by handelsblatt.com.