EU grants Spain €115 million over Ceuta migration crisis
The European Commission has allocated €115 million to Spain to help address the situation in Ceuta, after more than 70,000 irregular migrants crossed from Morocco in late July.
The European Commission has decided to grant Spain €115 million in funding to help manage the migration crisis in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The decision follows a request for assistance that Spain sent to Brussels in late August.
Commission Vice-President Henna Virkkunen said the events in Ceuta had put pressure on the European Union's external borders. She stressed that the EU's position on irregular migration remains unchanged: fighting illegal entry and ensuring the swift return of people staying in Ceuta unlawfully.
How the funds will be used
According to the Commission, the money will go toward improving border surveillance, border protection and security-related infrastructure. Specific examples mentioned include thermal cameras, floating buoy systems and underwater drones.
The funding will also be used to set up facilities for screening migrants, as well as to support the return of individuals residing in Ceuta illegally.
Background to the crisis
On 30 and 31 July, more than 70,000 irregular migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco. While most were returned to Morocco within a few hours, thousands remain in the city, wandering its streets and sleeping on beaches as the situation continues to be addressed.
