Spain Reports Sharp Decline in Illegal Immigration Following Morocco Diplomatic Reset

Migrant arrivals at the beginning of 2022, particularly via the Canary route, increased by more than 70% compared to 2021. But after Pedro Sanchez’s visit to Rabat on April 7, marking the end of the crisis between Spain and Morocco and the beginning of a new stage in the relationship between the two countries, migration flows have started to decline significantly. According to the latest data from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior published on Tuesday, 31,219 migrants arrived in Spain in 2022, a 25.6% decrease compared to 2021 and the lowest figure in four years, reports La Vanguardia.

In 2022, 350 boats arrived on the Canary coasts compared to 542 the previous year, a 29.7% decrease. According to Spanish police sources, Moroccan agents have considerably strengthened their presence on the Moroccan coasts since the resumption of relations. Similarly, police cooperation between the two countries has improved and become more effective, allowing 40% of migrants to be prevented from entering.

Migrant arrivals in the peninsula or the Balearic Islands from Algeria have also decreased by 24.7%, from 11,000 in 2021 to 8,000 in 2022. As for boat arrivals, they have decreased by 14%. These good results are the fruit of good cooperation with the countries of origin and transit of migrants, focused on the political, operational and financial fields, explains Elena Garzón, Director General of International Relations and Immigration at the Spanish Ministry of the Interior.

In October, Spain approved 30 million euros in aid to Morocco to fight illegal immigration and illicit trafficking. This is the fourth direct aid granted to Morocco since the arrival of Pedro Sánchez at the Moncloa in 2018, aid that also benefits countries such as Senegal, Mauritania or Algeria. But Morocco is a priority partner for Spain on immigration issues, Garzón points out. The issue will undoubtedly be at the heart of the High-Level Meeting between Spain and Morocco, scheduled for late January or early February.