Thousands of migrants and asylum seekers in the Spanish North African territory of Ceuta are facing dire conditions, leading to heightened political and social tensions. Ceuta’s Mayor-President Juan Jesus Vivas, representing the conservative Popular Party, has called for the establishment of an internment center to detain and confine migrants. He emphasized the urgency of this measure to prevent migrants from roaming the streets and to expedite expulsion proceedings.

The recent surge saw thousands crossing from Morocco into Ceuta by swimming or using inflatable rafts at the end of July, sparking debates about the European Union's external borders and causing diplomatic friction between Spain and other EU members. The Spanish government reported that 70,000 migrants and asylum seekers were returned to Morocco within two days.

Ceuta’s leader also stated that around 100 people died during the border rush, with up to 5,000 migrants still remaining in the enclave. In response to the crisis, approximately 5,000 Ceuta residents protested on Sunday, expressing concerns over safety and the handling of the migration situation.

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges at Europe’s African borders, particularly in Ceuta and Melilla, which remain flashpoints for migration and border security issues. Additionally, Spain has imposed border checks on Italy as a countermeasure related to the Ceuta dispute.

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