Ceuta migration crisis: MEPs criticize rights erosion and blocked transfers

European Parliament members Estrella Galán and Mélissa Camara have raised concerns regarding the humanitarian situation in Ceuta following a migration crisis in the summer of 2026. Galán, representing the Sumar group, announced in the European Parliament that her party and its ministers successfully blocked a Spanish government decree intended to accelerate the return of migrants from the autonomous city.

Galán stated that Sumar will vote against any measures that represent a regression of rights. She also accused the European Commission of blocking necessary migrant transfers to mainland Spain, noting that thousands of people, including minors, are in vulnerable conditions in the enclave. Camara described the situation in Ceuta as a “laboratory” where European law is being suspended, alleging arbitrary actions by police and military forces.

The MEPs are calling for the immediate activation of transfer mechanisms to move migrants to mainland Spain, where they claim over 10,000 reception spots are available, to alleviate the pressure on the small territory.