Spanish royals visit Ceuta after migration influx

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia visited Ceuta, Spain’s North African enclave, after a July mass crossing from Morocco. The trip, Felipe’s first as monarch, aimed to show support for residents and preceded a visit to Melilla. Morocco claims sovereignty over both cities, while Spain administers them.

• 80,000crossed Ceuta’s border in July — Figure cited in coverage
• More than 140died trying to reach Europe — During the July crossing
• Up to 15,000may remain in Ceuta — Estimate by Ceuta’s mayor

Q1

Who made the previous royal visit?

Juan Carlos, Felipe’s father, made the previous royal trip to both enclaves, and Morocco publicly objected at the time.

Q2

Why do crossings focus on enclaves?

Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish territory in North Africa; migrants view them as routes into the European Union and mainland Spain.

Q3

What conditions do migrants face?

AP found underage migrants living on Ceuta’s streets, while Spain investigates Amnesty International allegations of mistreatment and torture by soldiers.

Q4

Why is migration an election issue?

Opposition parties hope voters’ concerns about migration will help them unseat Spain’s progressive government in next month’s election.