Ceuta and Melilla: the Spanish enclaves at the centre of the fight against terrorism

Melilla and its smaller sister city of Ceuta have been part of Spanish territory since the 15th century and have been centre of diplomatic disputes ever since. While both towns have semi-autonomous status, their proximity to Spain and the fact that they are the only land borders between Europe and Africa make them a convenient route for migrants into Spain.

The Local.es, 13.09.17: Number of migrants arriving in Spain soars: minister https://www.thelocal.es/20170913/number-of-migrants-arriving-in-spain-soars-minister

ESO: Background information: Migrants once again drawn to deadly Spanish route to Europe, July 2017 http://www.europeansources.info/record/migrants-once-again-drawn-to-deadly-spanish-route-to-europe-almost-600-migrants-rescued-off-spanish-coast-in-less-than-12-hours-spain-cant-cope-with-rising-refugee-influx-un/

ESO: Background information: Spain: Terrorist attack, Barcelona / Cambrils, 17-18 August 2017 http://www.europeansources.info/record/spain-terrorist-attack-barcelona-cambrils-17-18-august-2017-barcelona-and-cambrils-attacks-what-we-know-so-far/

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