Spain to Relocate 400 Unaccompanied Migrant Minors from Canary Islands and Ceuta

The Canary Islands had requested the transfer of 1,363 minors and Ceuta, 182, as their protection systems were overwhelmed at 150%. According to the response plan to this situation, the host community for minors must take charge of 25 to 50% of the surplus. On this basis, 682 minors should leave the Canary Islands and 92 minors from Ceuta. The transfer will take place in two waves: 400 minors this year (340 from the Canary Islands and 60 from Ceuta) and 374 (342 from the Canary Islands and 32 from Ceuta) next year, according to EFE.

To prepare for their arrival in the host communities, 20 million euros will be allocated to them this year, taking into account the population, per capita income, unemployment rate or minors already present. The objective is to guarantee the best interests of the minors, paying particular attention to the most vulnerable persons (asylum seekers, girls, disabled, etc.).

The minors must undergo an individual interview, have been informed of the transfer and have expressed their agreement in writing. A protocol will be signed between the communities to coordinate the actions of the protection administrations. It includes the commitment to assume guardianship. The government has already allocated 500,000 euros respectively to Ceuta and the Canary Islands for obtaining the documentation of the minors and their transfer.