Three weeks after the migrant avalanche at the Ceuta border, we still have no reliable information about who instigated the assault and what role Morocco played. It is even possible that we will never know what happened. But three weeks later, the Government’s lack of responsiveness is also evident. The strategy of achieving a massive return in the first days has given way to the realization that a few thousand (8,000 is mentioned, but no one knows the exact number) wander around a city of 80,000 inhabitants with no intention of returning, while the difficulty of discriminating cases and acting accordingly is confirmed. The Executive’s inability to convey a clear idea of what it plans to do to resolve an unsustainable situation for the people of Ceuta and explosive for public opinion is surprising, especially since Pedro Sánchez has always emphasized his experience in exceptional situations.
Read more Spain responds to Morocco’s claims over Ceuta and Melilla
The Government’s position reflects the contradictions of the left regarding immigration. Two years ago, the CIS placed this phenomenon as the top concern for the first time. Since then, it has remained in the top three. 30% of respondents cited it as their primary concern, although only 13% admitted it affected them personally. The qualitative leap is that many now blame migrants for other problems, such as housing prices. For the PSOE, it is an uncomfortable issue, since its voters oscillate between fear of the arrival of foreigners and the willingness to welcome them. Some studies reveal that voters are less understanding than their parties on this issue. European socialists also experience this contradiction. Their differences are evident.
Read more Meghan Markle negotiates her return to television with a role in Netflix’s ‘The Gentlemen’
The worst for the Government is that it fails to send a clear message to any sector. Neither to those who want the expulsion of migrants nor to those who are outraged by the treatment these people receive, thousands of whom are minors (many girls who long for a freedom denied to them, as well as an economic future). The Government thus appears alone, without the support of a Europe leaning to the right and criticized by humanitarian organizations for the poor reception. Disoriented, it offers a sense of inefficiency and weariness that will be difficult to shake off.
