Hundreds of migrant children in Ceuta are still sleeping on streets and beaches, two months after thousands of people crossed into the Spanish territory on Africa’s northern coast.
Many unaccompanied teenagers remain without adequate shelter as colder weather approaches, raising concerns about child protection and the response of Spanish authorities.
According to Africanews and the Associated Press, an estimated 2,000 young migrants have been living in difficult conditions across the territory, with some sleeping on cardboard, discarded furniture and makeshift bedding.
The situation has prompted growing criticism from humanitarian observers and European lawmakers, who warn that vulnerable children are being left without essential protection.
Migrant children in Ceuta face worsening conditions
In early October, hundreds of young migrants gathered outside a church in Ceuta, hoping to receive information about possible transfers to mainland Spain or access to accommodation.
However, many returned to the same temporary camps and streets after the gathering.
One 17-year-old migrant from northern Morocco told reporters that he had expected his journey to take only a few weeks.
Instead, he had spent two months living outdoors, facing uncertainty about his future.
The teenager’s experience reflects the difficulties facing many young people who arrived in Ceuta without parents or guardians.
Makeshift settlements have appeared along beaches, hillsides and abandoned buildings, with overcrowding and poor sanitation creating additional risks.
According to the AP report, approximately 3,000 people were staying in one beachside camp, where children and adults shared facilities in difficult conditions.
Some children were reportedly as young as 13.
Spanish authorities face criticism over child protection
Under Spanish law, unaccompanied minors who enter the country fall within the child protection system.
They are entitled to care, including accommodation, healthcare and access to education.
However, the large number of arrivals has placed considerable pressure on local services.
Experts acknowledge that authorities face logistical challenges in processing applications and arranging accommodation.
Nevertheless, critics argue that the response has been too slow to meet the needs of vulnerable children.
The Associated Press reported concerns that delays could discourage some migrants from remaining in the territory.
Such concerns have intensified calls for Spanish authorities to improve coordination and provide appropriate shelter.
European lawmaker warns of humanitarian crisis
Estrella Galán, a member of the European Parliament representing The Left, recently visited Ceuta and raised concerns about the treatment of migrant children.
She described the humanitarian situation as increasingly serious.
Galán warned that children who should receive protection and guardianship were instead experiencing severe vulnerability.
Her comments have added to pressure on Spanish authorities to address conditions in temporary settlements.
The situation also raises broader questions about how European governments manage the arrival of unaccompanied minors at their borders.
Ceuta, a Spanish territory bordering Morocco, has long been an important crossing point for migrants seeking entry into European Union territory.
Its location makes it a focal point for migration movements between North Africa and Europe.
Concerns grow over safety and alleged mistreatment
Beyond the lack of accommodation, reports have highlighted concerns about children’s safety.
Some young migrants have reportedly been exposed to drug use, violence and unsafe living conditions while staying alongside unrelated adults.
Spanish prosecutors are also investigating allegations of torture and mistreatment involving migrants.
The allegations remain under investigation, and responsibility has not been established.
Humanitarian concerns are particularly serious for unaccompanied children, who may face exploitation and other risks without appropriate supervision.
Child protection advocates have called for safer accommodation and faster procedures to identify minors requiring assistance.
Calls for urgent action as winter approaches
With colder weather approaching, the conditions facing migrant children in Ceuta could become increasingly difficult.
Adequate housing, healthcare and access to education remain central concerns.
The situation has also highlighted the challenges facing authorities when large numbers of people arrive within a short period.
For the children still sleeping outdoors, however, the immediate concern is finding a safe place to stay.
As scrutiny grows, Spanish authorities face renewed calls to ensure that unaccompanied minors receive the protection guaranteed under national law.