Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Spain on Wednesday, protesting the government’s handling of the unprecedented migrant crisis in Ceuta, the Spanish territory on the North African coast.
The demonstrations came as Ceuta marked its annual official holiday, with celebrations largely overshadowed by the border crisis that has left thousands of migrants stranded in the city. Protesters blamed Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government and demanded stronger measures to restore security and order.
Authorities estimated that around 50,000 people attended the rally in Madrid, while major demonstrations were also held in Barcelona, Valencia and Seville. Protesters waved Spanish flags and shouted slogans against Sánchez and migrants.
Thousands Remain In Ceuta
The crisis began in late July when an estimated 72,000 people attempted to cross into Ceuta from Morocco by swimming, climbing or rushing the border. At least 90 people died during the effort to reach Spanish territory. Most of those who entered were later returned to Morocco or escorted back across the frontier. However, around 5,000 migrants, including approximately 1,200 minors, are still in Ceuta, according to Spain’s central government.
The sudden arrival of such a large number of people overwhelmed the territory’s resources. Ceuta has a population of roughly 84,000, making the influx particularly difficult for local authorities to manage. Regional President Juan Jesús Vivas said the incident should not simply be viewed as a migration emergency.
“What happened was the violation of Spain’s territorial integrity,” Vivas said during an official ceremony marking Ceuta’s holiday.
Government Faces Political Pressure
The crisis has intensified the political battle between Sánchez’s government and Spain’s conservative opposition. The Popular Party and far-right Vox have made the border situation a central issue in their criticism of the government. Wednesday’s demonstrations were formally organised by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces but were strongly promoted by both parties.
Territorial Policy Minister Ángel Víctor Torres accused the opposition of turning the crisis into a political campaign against Sánchez.
The government has rejected claims that it abandoned Ceuta and announced €309 million ($357 million) in additional funding for the territory. The money is intended to support social services, migrant housing, the local economy and security.
Sánchez Blames Disinformation
Sánchez has defended Morocco’s response to the border breach, saying Moroccan authorities acted quickly to help return most of the migrants. The prime minister has instead pointed to misinformation and social media activity as factors behind the mass crossing. He has also accused accounts linked to Russia and Israel, along with right-wing groups, of amplifying narratives surrounding the crisis.
Russia and Israel have rejected the allegations. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow had seen no evidence supporting Spain’s claims. The Spanish government has not publicly identified specific Russian or Israeli disinformation campaigns, referring instead to internal assessments by its Foreign Affairs Ministry and the European Commission’s diplomatic service.
Migrants Continue To Face Difficult Conditions
The situation in Ceuta remains unsettled, with migrants, including unaccompanied children, still living in temporary shelters, on beaches and in other outdoor locations while authorities work on registration, accommodation and returns to Morocco.
Some migrants say they have been waiting for weeks for a solution.
Vivas has called for Spain to strengthen the border and reduce its dependence on cooperation with Morocco, warning that migration could otherwise continue to be used as a political tool. Sánchez said his government was committing all necessary resources to help Ceuta return to normal and restore a sense of security among its residents.
Ceuta’s Sept. 2 holiday traditionally features official ceremonies, music and cultural events. This year, however, the celebrations were overshadowed by the territory’s worst border crisis in recent memory.
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