In response to a recent surge of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, leaders from 22 EU nations have issued a letter expressing their serious concern over the situation at the external border of the European Union. They emphasized their commitment to preventing the integrity of the EU’s external borders from being undermined by illegal crossings and hybrid threats.
The letter stated that uncontrolled mass border crossings could create the impression that illegal entry into the EU is feasible and could lead to legal residency. European leaders believe that this perception could encourage further attempts at illegal immigration, eroding trust in the EU’s collective migration policy and affecting all member states.
“The events of recent days require an immediate and coordinated European response. We welcome the close cooperation between Spain and Morocco for the swift return of migrants who entered illegally, noting that a significant number have already been returned. We expect that, with the support of the European Union, the current situation will be fully managed,” the document reads.
The leaders urged Ireland, which currently holds the EU Council presidency, to urgently convene an extraordinary video conference of interior ministers in light of the seriousness of the situation. They also affirmed their readiness to take any necessary measures to maintain public order and mitigate risks arising from such movements.
Representatives reminded that the European Council has previously stressed that protecting the EU’s external borders and preventing illegal migration is a shared European responsibility. They highlighted the need for unity, determination, and urgency in addressing the current situation.
“We count on your leadership to ensure that the European Union responds swiftly, effectively, and in a coordinated manner,” they concluded.
The statement received support from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Italy, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Denmark, Bulgaria, Belgium, Finland, Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, and Croatia.
Context
- On July 30, tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco breached the border into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Local authorities reported that more than 60,000 people crossed during the surge, resulting in over 40 fatalities. In response, Spain deployed military and civil guard units to the city.
