Kathmandu— Spain formally requested emergency funding from the European Union to address the ongoing migration situation in Ceuta, a North African enclave bordering Morocco. The request follows an unprecedented influx of more than 70,000 migrants who attempted to cross into Spanish territory at the end of July, driven by poverty and misinformation. At least 90 people died during the crisis, according to official counts, while human rights organizations report higher figures. The European Commission is currently assessing Spain’s request with priority.

EU Response and Assessment

The European Commission confirmed receipt of Spain's formal request for emergency funding on Tuesday. Commission spokesman Markus Lammert stated during a news briefing in Brussels that the commission is “working on assessing their request as a priority and with a view to taking a swift decision.” The EU remains “fully engaged at all levels” to ensure the security of its external borders, according to the commission.

The Ceuta Influx

More than 70,000 migrants surged towards Ceuta in late July, creating one of the deadliest migration crises in the region. The majority have since returned to Morocco, but between five and ten percent – an estimated 3,500 to 7,000 individuals – remain in Ceuta, including unaccompanied children who cannot be immediately deported. Spanish authorities are now tasked with identifying those remaining to determine eligibility for international protection or initiate return procedures.

Spanish Government Action

Spain’s cabinet approved the creation of a “single command” structure for Ceuta, led by Territorial Policy Minister Angel Victor Torres, in an effort to expedite response efforts. Torres explained that the priority is “the return and repatriation of the greatest possible number of people, adults and minors,” while upholding Spanish law and human rights. The government will continue providing humanitarian assistance to asylum seekers and unaccompanied minors who cannot be returned.

Ceuta’s Unique Border Status

Ceuta and Melilla are Spain’s two North African enclaves, representing the EU’s only land borders with Africa. These enclaves operate under a special arrangement within the Schengen free-travel zone, requiring border checks for anyone entering before they can travel onward to mainland Spain.

Spanish authorities continue to work on identifying and processing those remaining in Ceuta, balancing repatriation efforts with humanitarian obligations as they await a decision from the European Commission regarding emergency funding.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.