Ceuta migrant crisis: Moroccan government widely blamed in Spain

A fresh opinion poll on the Ceuta migrant crisis shows that many Spaniards hold Morocco largely responsible, while also blaming the Spanish government for how the situation was handled.

Ceuta migrant crisis puts Morocco under scrutiny

According to the survey by the 40dB institute, close to 90% of respondents believe the Moroccan government bears a large share of responsibility for the massive arrival of migrants in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta at the end of July.

This sudden influx reignited tensions between Rabat and Madrid. It came at a time when bilateral ties already relied heavily on joint management of borders and migration flows.

The Ceuta migrant crisis poll is based on 2,000 online interviews carried out over three days. It was conducted just before the release of a Spanish police report mentioning a possible involvement of some Moroccan actors in these movements.

Sánchez’s government under fire over its response

The survey also shows that Spanish public opinion does not spare its own government. Around 72% of those interviewed say the cabinet of Pedro Sánchez also carries a great deal of responsibility for the crisis.

Some 63% rate Sánchez’s management of the situation as “bad” or “very bad”. Just over 14% view his handling as “good” or “very good”.

For the Spanish executive, these figures highlight growing mistrust on a strategic issue: border control and irregular arrivals on Spanish soil.

Harsher views on migration and on ties with Morocco

The Ceuta migrant crisis appears to have hardened attitudes on migration policy. Around 70% of respondents want tighter border controls, even if that means restricting access for vulnerable people seeking protection.

Less than 20% favour an approach focused on welcoming such people, despite the risk of larger arrivals.

This tougher stance also affects views on relations with Morocco:

• 45.7% of respondents support a tougher line towards Rabat;
• 36.8% believe cooperation should be strengthened, as it is seen as essential for controlling borders;
• 8.2% would prefer to keep the current balance.

More than 83% say they are closely following events in Ceuta, and over six in ten see this crisis as one of Spain’s main current challenges.

Vox gains ground in a tense political climate

Against the backdrop of the this case, the far-right party Vox is seen by many respondents as the most capable of handling migration issues.

Around 27% consider Vox the best placed party on this topic, ahead of the Socialist Party (18.4%) and the Popular Party (13.9%).

This trend echoes a broader European pattern, where parties campaigning on security, borders and asylum gain traction when migration is perceived as a major concern.

What does this mean for Moroccans living abroad?

For Moroccans living in Europe, the this issue poll confirms a more sensitive environment around travel between both shores of the Mediterranean. Tougher rhetoric and potentially stricter controls can affect cross-border movements, summer return plans and travel routes between Morocco and Spain.

So far, Spanish authorities have not announced any new specific measures targeting Moroccan or dual-national travellers. However, developments will need to be monitored through official channels in the coming weeks.

In practical terms, Moroccans abroad who plan to travel through Spain or via Ceuta and Melilla should keep a close eye on updated information about crossing rules and checks, and rely on official sources for any change in procedures.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.

For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.