Rabat's Diplomatic Efforts to Combat Irregular Migration
On September 20, 2026, the Embassy of Spain in Rabat initiated a campaign on social media aimed at dissuading irregular crossings into the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, located in North Africa. This campaign aligns with the directives of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The embassy's messaging emphasized that entering Spain illegally through these territories does not confer any rights to access the mainland, remain in Spain, or travel freely within the European Union. Such statements were disseminated through the embassy's official social media accounts, highlighting the importance of accurate information amidst widespread disinformation.
The embassy further clarified that a recent Supreme Court ruling outlined specific procedures for those entering Spain via maritime routes. Importantly, this decision does not alter existing immigration laws, nor does it classify refusal at the border as illegal, nor does it obstruct returns. Additionally, the embassy pointed out that Ceuta and Melilla operate under a unique control regime in Europe, involving a dual security filter: one at the Moroccan border and another Schengen check before departing for the mainland, whether by sea or air. The embassy reiterated that individuals must present identification to the National Police before boarding any transport.
Context of the Campaign Amidst Social Media Mobilization
This campaign comes amid renewed social media mobilization regarding crossings to Ceuta and Melilla, with indications of potential protests in front of the Spanish embassy in Rabat on the same day. While no such events have materialized as of yet, there are calls for another irregular crossing attempt into Ceuta planned for September 23, coinciding with election day in Morocco. The Spanish government's warnings, which have also been published in French, are part of a broader institutional campaign by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed at addressing misinformation circulating on social platforms.
On August 3, the Ministry released a document titled “Irregular Entry into Ceuta or Melilla Does Not Allow for Staying in Spain or Accessing Europe,” which was formulated in response to rampant disinformation. The Spanish authorities' reaction follows a significant migration crisis triggered by the largest mass crossing of the Ceuta border on July 30, with over 70,000 individuals attempting to enter, encouraged by social media rumors. Although most irregular migrants have since returned to Morocco, thousands—predominantly young individuals—remain in the Spanish city. This crisis has exacerbated tensions between Madrid and Rabat, resulting in at least 140 fatalities as reported by civil organizations.
As reported by correiodamanhacanada.com.
