Spain plans stricter rules on asylum seekers in Ceuta, draft decree shows - reuters.com

Spain is preparing a draft decree that would alter the usual migration procedures for asylum seekers who entered the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa during the mass crossing in July. The proposed measure would tighten the rules governing the processing of asylum claims for those migrants, effectively overriding the standard legal framework that currently applies.

According to the draft, authorities would be able to apply more restrictive criteria when evaluating applications for international protection, potentially limiting the number of individuals eligible for asylum. The decree also foresees the possibility of expedited removal for migrants whose claims are rejected, aiming to reduce the time they remain in the enclave while their cases are under review.

Legal experts and non‑governmental organisations have expressed concern about the draft, arguing that it could undermine the rights of asylum seekers and contravene international obligations. Critics say the changes may restrict access to fair and thorough assessment procedures that are required under European Union and United Nations standards.

The Spanish government has not yet confirmed the final content of the decree, and the proposal remains in draft form. Officials have indicated that the measure is intended to address the challenges posed by the large influx of migrants in July, which placed significant pressure on local resources and public services in Ceuta. Further discussions are expected before any definitive legislative action is taken.