EU calls for stronger borders after migrant crossings into Spanish territory
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for unified action to strengthen border security following a massive influx of migrants into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta. The incident has caused diplomatic friction within the EU, leading some member states to temporarily suspend Schengen arrangements with Spain.
Why it matters
The crisis highlights ongoing tensions within the EU regarding migration policy, border control, and the stability of the Schengen area.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google George Wright Watch: Migrants started to return to Morocco after thousands entered Spain's Ceuta on 30 July European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for "united action" on border security after the chaotic influx of tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta last week.
Spain estimates that about 69,500 migrants have now returned to Morocco, exceeding initial estimates of 50,000. The official death toll on the Spanish side of the border stands at 72, with 11 deaths on the Moroccan side.
On Tuesday, EU interior ministers will have emergency talks by video conference to discuss the issue.
The scenes in Ceuta have strained relations among some of the EU's 27 member states.
In a letter to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, von der Leyen praised his "swift handling" of the crisis.
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