Statement on the situation in Ceuta

The mass influx of more than 80,000 people into the Spanish city of Ceuta on 30 July, caused more than 140 deaths and alarming humanitarian consequences. The EESC Workers’ Group reiterates its condolences and grief and asks for immediate EU action to ensure respect of fundamental rights.

We also express our solidarity with the people and society of Ceuta, who are suffering the consequences of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that has already dragged on for far too long: this solidarity extends to the thousands of people (minors, applicants for international protection, migrants) who still find themselves in a precarious situation in the city of Ceuta.

It is important to emphasise that the arrival of these thousands of people is neither a chance nor an impromptu event, but has been supported and encouraged by external parties seeking not only to destabilise the Spanish Government and society, but also to undermine the internal cohesion and solidarity of the EU.

An issue of a geopolitical nature, such as what has occurred in Ceuta, cannot be viewed solely from a migration perspective; rather, it must immediately elicit a united response of the whole EU since this is an attack on the integrity not only of Spanish territory but also of the EU itself.

We call for a sense of responsibility to ensure that, in full compliance with international, EU and Spanish legislation, and on the basis of full respect of human rights, unaccompanied foreign children are protected, those who are legitimately seeking international protection are safeguarded, and the dignity of all other individuals is guaranteed whilst the administrative procedures determining their status are being finalised.

Lucie Studničná, Workers' Group President

José Antonio Moreno Díaz, Fundamental Rights and Rule of Law Group President

Cinzia del Rio, SOC Section President

Carlos Trindade, Permanent Group of Immigration and Integration President

Mari Carmen Barrera Chamorro, Workers' Group Vice-President

Maria Nikolopoulou

Carmen Donate López

Javier Doz Orrit

Manuel García Salgado