Morocco considers suspending extradition agreement with Spain

Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi has announced that Morocco is considering suspending its bilateral extradition agreement with Spain. The potential move stems from concerns regarding a lack of reciprocity in judicial cooperation.

Moroccan authorities report that while they regularly hand over individuals requested by Spanish authorities, several Spanish requests for extradition have been rejected or frustrated even after legal procedures have advanced. Specifically, the Minister noted instances where Moroccan security agents are mobilized for transfers, only for the handover to fail at the final stage.

The tension is compounded by broader disagreements over migration management. Morocco has expressed grievances regarding Spain’s regularization of irregular migrants and has called for faster returns of unaccompanied minors in Ceuta. While the current agreement, which has been in effect since 2012, remains active, the Moroccan government is seeking more clearly defined and concrete procedures to ensure mutual cooperation.