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Rabat – Moroccan workers in Ceuta and Melilla are protesting the Spanish government’s decision to tighten visa restrictions around them crossing the borders with Morocco.
While borders have been open since May 17 for EU citizens and residents, and those otherwise allowed to travel the Schengen area, they will open on May 31 for certified foreign workers.
Many workers will be required to obtain a special visa that allows them to access only the Spanish enclaves, but many activists and workers have said obtaining the special visa will be difficult.
Around 3,600 people work in the cities and have been paying taxes and social security during their time there, and have expressed disappointment that a visa could be imposed on them now after years of certified work.
Workers are worried about seeing decades of work vanish or go uncompensated, as some employers also refuse to produce the contracts necessary to start the visa procedures.
Money placed in bank accounts in Ceuta and Melilla could also become inaccessible, the workers fear.
Union activists and leaders have detailed plans to go to the crossing points on May 31 with only their work permits and no visas, saying that if they are not allowed to cross the border, they will be staging a sit-in protest at the border.
Read also: Celebrations, Joy Greet Reopening of Moroccan Borders With Ceuta, Melilla
“What is happening is dangerous. We contacted all the ministries concerned. We will also contact the Head of Government to interfere in this affair,” said Marouane Chakib, Secretary General for the Workers of Ceuta. “To prevent any escalation, it is paramount that Morocco’s government reacts.”
Borders between Ceuta and Melilla and Morocco had been closed since March 2020, with a diplomatic crisis between Madrid and Rabat delaying the opening.
While the border was opened on May 17, the opening remains gradual, and those who desire access are required to present vaccination proof as a measure against the Coronavirus.
