Rabat – Spain’s Health Minister Monica Garcia denied claims from far-right politicians and some media outlets that migrants have pushed Ceuta’s healthcare to the point of collapse.
Garcia said the healthcare system in the Spanish-occupied enclave remains operational despite increased pressure on several services.
She made the remarks in response to ongoing criticism targeting migrants following the mass crossing that the enclave witnessed on July 30.
Tens of thousands of migrants crossed to the enclave by swimming. Spanish reports estimate that between 70,000 and 80,000 reached Ceuta by swimming. Morocco’s official assessment puts the number at 40,000.
“There is no healthcare collapse in Ceuta,” Garcia told the press after a meeting with Juan Jesus Vivas, president of Ceuta.
She said 5,800 migrants were treated over 15 days, emphasizing that pressure on healthcare services has declined since the first day.
She acknowledged the situation is “not normal,” especially in services that are facing greater pressure, but emphasized that there had been no need to ask any healthcare professional to cut short their vacation.
She said there is a “moderate epidemiological risk” for migrants and a “low risk” for the local population, according to EFE, asserting that “migrants do not bring diseases.”
News on the Ceuta crossing has been making rounds on the internet since late July, triggering anti-Moroccan rhetoric and claims targeting Rabat and its migratory policy.
However, several reports cited Morocco’s continued cooperation, which prevented new crossings, especially this weekend.
Morocco arrested around 300 people who attempted to cross the border on August 15 following a social media campaign inciting a new entry. Both Spain and Morocco are reinforcing border control to address the situation.
Ceuta president said today he will turn to the judiciary to raise concerns about the situation, accusing Pedro Sanchez government of inaction.
He said he is demanding a meeting with officials, including representatives from the Supreme Court, to tell them “Ceuta is in danger.”
