In a statement published on 31 July 2026, Amnesty International said Ceuta authorities estimated that more than 60,000 people had crossed. Spain deployed army units to support the police and the Guardia Civil, while reports indicated that thousands of people were sleeping on the streets.
Esteban Beltrán, Director of Amnesty International Spain, said both countries must ensure access to the asylum system for people who request protection and uphold the rights of all migrants without discrimination.
Non-refoulement and collective expulsions
Amnesty stressed that the principle of non-refoulement is absolute under international law and that collective expulsions are prohibited in all circumstances. The organization also said all forces deployed must comply with international law and standards governing the use of force.
Spanish authorities were urged to provide adequate healthcare and social care, with particular attention to children and others at heightened risk of rights violations. Amnesty also called for steps to prevent discriminatory impacts on racialized people and children and for public authorities to condemn racist rhetoric.
Situation under monitoring
The organization said it would continue monitoring border-control practices for possible violations, including excessive use of force and breaches of the obligation not to return people to places where they face serious harm.
