Spanish prosecutors fault Algeria and Morocco for blocking return of expelled nationals
The Spanish Public Prosecutor's Office says Algeria and Morocco impede the repatriation of their citizens expelled by Spanish courts.
The Fiscalía General del Estado’s 2025 memorandum, released during the opening of the judicial year, accuses Algeria and Morocco of imposing severe barriers to the reception of their nationals ordered to leave Spain. It points to persistent structural problems, a lack of consular assistance and missing paperwork that undermine the effectiveness of expulsions. Provinces such as Sevilla, Baleares, Valencia, Murcia and Zaragoza have reported difficulties with the Moroccan and Algerian consulates, whereas Segovia managed to authorize and execute the majority of its requests.
The report also notes a steady rise in expulsion requests over recent years, especially for offenses like public order violations and theft. Following recent incidents in Ceuta, Spanish courts have ordered additional expulsions of Moroccan citizens.
Why it matters
Limited cooperation hampers Spain's ability to enforce court-ordered deportations, affecting public safety and bilateral relations.
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