Agadir – The Democratic Workers’ Organization (ODT) has raised alarm over the situation of Moroccan minors attempting to reach Ceuta and Melilla, calling for greater protection of their rights and a response to the factors driving irregular migration.
In a statement, the Moroccan labor organization expressed its “deep sorrow” over the deaths and injuries of several young Moroccans following attempts to migrate to the two Spanish-administered enclaves.
The ODT extended its condolences to the families of those who died and wished a speedy recovery to those injured, saying the tragedies have caused widespread distress among young Moroccans.
The organization said the recent attempts to cross into Ceuta and Melilla should not be viewed as isolated incidents, arguing that they reflect “the deterioration of the social and economic crisis, the growing frustration, and the loss of trust in public policies” related to employment, social integration, and living costs.
ODT calls for national dialogue on migration
At the national level, the ODT placed responsibility on the government for what it described as failures to create sufficient employment opportunities and reduce unemployment, poverty, and social instability, particularly among young people.
The organization called for a nationwide dialogue on youth and migration to develop new public policies addressing the root causes of irregular migration.
It also called for the creation of a specialized government sector responsible for migration and refugee affairs, arguing that migration requires a comprehensive institutional response rather than a predominantly security-based approach.
The ODT said the fight against irregular migration should address poverty, unemployment, precariousness, and social exclusion while strengthening international cooperation, creating legal and safe migration pathways, and expanding training and employment opportunities for young people.
It also called for stronger efforts against human trafficking networks, stressing the need to distinguish victims from those involved in criminal activity.
Organization calls for protection of minors
The ODT stressed that the protection of children and minors must remain a central consideration in any decision concerning their return.
It called for individual assessments of minors’ circumstances, including their family and social situation and the conditions awaiting them upon return.
The organization also raised questions over the fate of minors who have no parents or relatives capable of receiving them, calling for mechanisms that guarantee their protection, care, and support.
The ODT rejected collective detention and approaches that treat migrants primarily as security threats or administrative cases destined for removal.
It stressed that any return process must comply with national legislation and international conventions concerning children’s rights and the principle of non-refoulement.
Calls for investigation into alleged abuses
The organization also called on Spanish authorities to investigate what it described as attacks against Moroccan nationals during recent migration attempts.
“We demand that the Spanish authorities immediately and transparently investigate these attacks, hold all those involved accountable, and ensure the protection of all individuals on the territory under their jurisdiction, without any discrimination or racism,” the ODT said.
The organization further condemned any hatred and racism against migrants and warned against using the migration issue for political or electoral purposes in Spain and Europe.
The ODT said Spanish trade unions and human rights organizations should take a clear position against hate speech and racism and reject attempts by political actors to exploit the humanitarian dimension of the crisis.
