Ceuta and Melilla: Why Europe’s African border remains a flashpoint - Al Jazeera
The Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa have become focal points for migration and diplomatic friction between Spain and Morocco. These territories serve as the only land borders between the European Union and Africa, leading to recurring political crises.
Why it matters
The status of these enclaves is central to EU border policy and the complex geopolitical relationship between Europe and North Africa.
The two Spanish enclaves in North Africa remain at the centre of a diplomatic standoff between Spain and Morocco.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Spanish police officers and soldiers escort a large group of migrants to the border to take them out of Spain, after mass crossings of migrants on foot and by sea from Morocco into Spanish territory, in Ceuta, Spain, August 1, 2026 [Fabian Bimmer/Reuters] By Al Jazeera staff Published On 5 Aug 2026 5 Aug 2026 Thousands of migrants entered the Spanish city of Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco on July 31, bringing renewed attention to one of Europe’s most unusual borders.
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