Irregular migration to Ceuta rises 191% as Spain highlights the importance of cooperation with Morocco

Wednesday 19 August 2026 - 07:21

By: Azzat Manal

Irregular migration to Ceuta rises 191% as Spain highlights the importance of cooperation with Morocco

Irregular migration to Ceuta has increased sharply in 2026, according to the latest figures from Spain’s Interior Ministry, placing renewed attention on the role of cooperation between Madrid and Rabat in managing migration along the western Mediterranean and North African borders.

Between January 1 and August 15, Spanish authorities recorded 5,013 irregular arrivals to Ceuta through land routes, compared with 1,722 during the same period in 2025. The figures represent an increase of 191.1%, or 3,291 additional arrivals in one year.

The official figures do not include the large-scale influx reported in Ceuta on July 30 and 31. That episode generated significant political debate in Spain, with reports describing the arrival of a very large number of people over a short period.

The increase has placed additional pressure on the Spanish government, particularly as political parties on the right have intensified criticism of the authorities’ migration policies. Some far-right voices have also accused Morocco of facilitating irregular crossings in an attempt to put pressure on Spain.

Spanish government sources have presented a different assessment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining close coordination with Morocco. Cooperation between the two countries has played a significant role in border management, preventing irregular departures and facilitating the return of migrants in accordance with existing procedures.

The situation is particularly challenging for Ceuta because of the pressure placed on local reception facilities. Spanish authorities have reported 2,168 minors among those currently in the city, creating additional demands on social and accommodation services.

The future of these minors remains a major issue for both countries. Moroccan authorities have called for the acceleration of procedures concerning the return of Moroccan minors, while stressing that such cases should be addressed through bilateral cooperation and coordination.

The migration situation also illustrates the strategic importance of Morocco for Spain and the wider European Union. Rabat has become a key partner in efforts to combat migrant smuggling networks, strengthen border controls and manage irregular migration routes toward Spanish territory.

At the same time, Morocco has repeatedly emphasized that responsibility for controlling migration routes cannot rest exclusively with the country. Moroccan officials have argued that border management requires shared responsibility, resources and coordination between countries of origin, transit and destination.

The sharp increase in arrivals to Ceuta therefore presents a complex challenge for both Madrid and Rabat. While Spain faces growing pressure to strengthen its border and reception systems, Morocco remains an important partner in efforts to prevent irregular migration and address the humanitarian and security dimensions of the issue.

The latest figures are likely to keep migration high on the bilateral agenda, particularly as both countries seek to balance border security with cooperation, the protection of migrants and the management of vulnerable groups.