Underage migrants in Ceuta left sleeping on streets as shelters remain scarce

The July influx of migrants into Ceuta sparked the deadliest border crisis in Spain’s recent history, leaving thousands of unaccompanied minors without adequate accommodation. Teens have been confined to overcrowded beachside tents, cramped garages charged at 15 euros per night, or sleeping on the streets and hillsides, with reports of robbery and violence. Human-rights groups cite investigations into mistreatment, including allegations of torture and sexual abuse by soldiers.

The Spanish government has allocated over 90 million euros for the response, yet the city of Ceuta says it cannot process all cases, and estimates of remaining migrants vary from 2,000 to 15,000. Youth Minister Sira Rego says most minors intend to remain in Spain, while Mayor Juan Vivas calls for a clear plan to return them to Morocco. The situation highlights the tension between legal obligations to protect minors and the limited capacity of local authorities.