Baleares Rejects Further Migrant Minors from Canarias
The Balearic Islands have announced they will no longer accept migrant minors from the Canary Islands, citing an overwhelmed infrastructure. This decision comes amidst ongoing negotiations between the Central Government and Canarias for a mandatory redistribution plan.
Baleares’ Stance on Migrant Minors
The Balearic government has firmly rejected participation in any new distribution plan for migrant minors from Canarias. “We are already overwhelmed with those arriving at our shores,” stated officials from the Govern. This stance underscores a need for effective solutions beyond the current redistribution strategies to address irregular migration issues.
Government Negotiations and Proposals
A tentative agreement between the Central Government and Canarias aims to bring a legislative proposal to Congress, which would facilitate the mandatory distribution of migrant minors across Spain. Canarias’ President, Fernando Clavijo, suggests a decree law for an urgent distribution of about 4,000 minors, while the Central Government pushes for a reform of Article 35 of the Immigration Law.
Capacity and Overcrowding
Baleares already hosts 306 unaccompanied foreign minors, which represents a 650% overcapacity. In the last distribution in July, the islands took in ten minors. Catalina Cirer, the Balearic Minister for Families and Social Affairs, has publicly stated that further intake is unsustainable, urging the Ministry of Youth and Childhood to acknowledge Baleares as a migrant route.
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The Algerian Route Challenge
During the December Presidents’ Conference, Marga Prohens, President of the Balearic Government, discussed the issue with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. She highlighted a significant increase in arrivals from Algeria, exceeding 5,000 in 2024, with a notable rise in unaccompanied minors. Mallorca faces severe shortages in space and staff to manage this influx.
The decision by Baleares not to accept more migrant minors from Canarias reflects a broader conversation on how regions manage migrant flows. The islands argue for capacity-based solutions rather than solidarity-driven redistribution, spotlighting the challenges of local resource management in the face of international migration pressures.
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