**Ceuta Residents Call for Calm Amid Nationwide Rallies Over Migrant Crisis**
Residents of Ceuta, a Spanish enclave located on the northern coast of Africa, have called for calm as the region grapples with an unprecedented migrant crisis. On Wednesday, hundreds of rallies were scheduled across Spain in solidarity with the enclave, which has seen a significant influx of migrants in recent weeks.
The crisis escalated nearly five weeks ago when at least 72,000 people crossed the border from Morocco in a surge that resulted in tragic loss of life. As of now, local authorities estimate that over 10,000 migrants, including many unaccompanied minors, remain stranded in makeshift camps or scattered throughout the streets and beaches of Ceuta.
The situation has led to increased tensions among residents, many of whom blame the Spanish central government for the inadequate response to the crisis. Lola, a middle-aged resident of Ceuta, expressed her frustration, stating, “The government has failed to act in a critical situation. It’s spiraling out of control. We’re tired, just like those who came are getting tired, and tensions are rising. There’s a point where this will become a powder keg.”
Local protests have become a near-daily occurrence, with demonstrators demanding that the migrants be sent back to their countries of origin or redistributed across Spain. Francisco Garcia Segado, head of the residents’ association FPAV Ceuta, emphasized the desire for a peaceful demonstration, aiming to keep the event “clean, free, without disrespecting anyone.” He also expressed concerns about the potential for violence, particularly from far-right activists who might join the protests.
Recent protests have seen sporadic violence, including attacks on makeshift migrant camps at El Trampolin beach and confrontations with law enforcement. Some Moroccan citizens have been arrested for throwing stones and bottles at army patrols, highlighting the escalating tensions in the area.
The nationwide protests were organized by FEMP, the federation of municipalities, which is largely influenced by the opposition conservative People's Party (PP). The Spanish government has distanced itself from the initiative, accusing the opposition of using the crisis for political gain. Territorial Policy Minister Angel Victor Torres criticized the protests, stating, “This is not about defending Ceuta and the Ceutans, it is about attacking the government.”
In contrast, a citizens’ initiative known as ‘Por Ceuta’ (For Ceuta) has gathered nearly 65,000 signatures, calling for respect for the human rights of both residents and migrants. The initiative advocates for the orderly return of those without the right to remain and increased security measures. They emphasize that their movement is non-political.
Counter-protests have also emerged, organized by left-wing collectives and unions in various cities, including Madrid. These gatherings aim to condemn what they describe as “racist and Islamophobic persecutions and attacks” against migrants in Ceuta.
Negotiations between local and central governments regarding the crisis have reached a deadlock. The PP, which governs many regions and has formed coalitions with the far-right Vox party, has called for the deportation of all migrants remaining in Ceuta, including minors.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the Spanish government has taken steps to increase capacity at temporary accommodation centers, raising the number of available places from about 500 to over 3,400. Additionally, more than 1,600 police officers have been deployed to manage the situation. However, local leaders and community groups argue that these measures are insufficient to ensure the safety of both citizens and migrants.
Juan Miguel Morales, director of the Sur Acoge charity, highlighted the need for more resources, stating, “The central government needs to provide funds and the local government needs to provide space … that’s the battle we’re in. The response has lacked agility: that much is clear.”
As Ceuta continues to navigate this complex humanitarian crisis, the calls for calm from local residents underscore the urgent need for a coordinated and effective response from both local and national authorities. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing protests and negotiations reflecting the deep divisions and challenges faced by the enclave.