The request follows a large-scale arrival of migrants in Ceuta on 30 and 31 July. According to the Spanish authorities, more than 70.000 people entered the autonomous city from Morocco during this period. The Spanish government reported that between 90% and 95% of those who arrived had returned to Morocco within 24 to 48 hours, following cooperation between the Spanish and Moroccan authorities. Nevertheless, several thousand people remained in Ceuta in late August, creating continued pressure on reception capacity and local services.

During its press briefing on 25 August, the Commission stated that the situation had evolved from that at the beginning of the month and that new attempts to enter Ceuta had been prevented through cooperation between the Spanish and Moroccan authorities. It nevertheless stressed that important challenges remained, particularly in relation to the people still present in Ceuta, and said that the priority was to ensure their swift return where they were staying irregularly. The Commission also welcomed Spain’s initiative to reinforce coordination in response to the crisis.

The Commission confirmed that it had received Spain’s formal request for emergency funding on 24 August and was assessing it as a priority with a view to taking a swift decision. It did not provide details on the amount requested or the potential financial package. The Commission said it was ready to provide further EU support, including through EU agencies, and that Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner was in regular contact with the Spanish authorities, while Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica was in close contact with the Moroccan authorities.

For further information, please watch the European Commission’s press briefing of 25 August 2026.