In a recent survey conducted by the Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas (CIS), a significant majority of the Spanish population has expressed their views on the complex relationship with Morocco, particularly in the context of border control and cooperation. Released on September 14, 2026, the survey indicates that 86.3% of Spaniards deem it essential to maintain a cooperative relationship with Morocco to ensure border security, especially in light of the recent influx of approximately 80,000 migrants into Ceuta during the last days of July. This sentiment reflects a strong recognition of the need for collaboration in managing migration challenges, with only 10.1% of respondents considering this cooperation as unimportant.
However, the desire for cooperation is coupled with a robust demand for stricter border controls, as evidenced by the 82.2% of respondents advocating for enhanced security measures at the Spanish borders in Ceuta and Melilla. Conversely, only 13.3% believe that the current security measures are adequate. This duality highlights the Spanish public's nuanced perspective, where there is a clear call for increased firmness on border issues while simultaneously supporting ongoing dialogue with Rabat.
European Support and Perceptions of Territorial Status
The survey further illustrates a strong call for increased assistance from the European Union, with 89.4% of participants urging Brussels to provide more support to the Spanish government in addressing the ongoing migration crisis. Only a mere 7.2% feel that the EU's involvement is sufficient. Regarding the status of Ceuta and Melilla, 77.1% assert that these cities are as Spanish as any territory within the Iberian Peninsula, while 14.3% see their status as "ambiguous and special," suggesting the need for agreements with Morocco.
These findings come at a time when Spain is grappling with its persistent reliance on Moroccan labor, despite the tensions that have arisen from the recent events in Ceuta. The survey also touched on suspicions of external interference aimed at exacerbating tensions between Madrid and Rabat, with 67.7% of respondents considering such interferences likely. Among those who suspect interference, 49.1% pointed to the United States, 38.1% identified certain sectors within Moroccan society, and 35.4% mentioned specific Israeli sectors.
Interestingly, despite the heightened tensions, only 3.1% of Spaniards advocate for severing ties with Morocco, indicating a recognition of the complexities of the bilateral relationship. Notably, 55% perceive Morocco as a significant threat to Spain, a sentiment echoed in a separate study by the Royal Elcano Institute, underscoring the prevailing anxieties surrounding potential conflict scenarios.
As reported by bladi.net.
