Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Madrid to protest the Spanish government's policy on irregular migration and its management of a recent influx of migrants into Ceuta, a North African enclave. The protest, organized by the right-wing civil society group Sociedad Civil Espanola, received support from the conservative People's Party (PP) and the far-right Vox party.
The Spanish government reported an attendance of 20,000, while organizers claimed the number was 180,000. In late July, over 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco, with many being returned, although thousands remain stranded. Protesters accused Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and his administration of failing to secure the borders of Ceuta and called for early elections by mid-November. Vox has called for Sanchez to be tried for treason, despite the next general election not being scheduled until August 2027.
PP secretary-general Miguel Tellado stated there is a widespread belief that the government has not acted responsibly, citing a dereliction of duty. He emphasized the need for Spanish society to demand the government defend territorial integrity. The surge of migrants into Ceuta resulted in unprecedented scenes and the deaths of dozens of individuals.
Sanchez indicated that Moroccan border control inadequately managed the situation, and an investigation is ongoing, with Rabat being asked for explanations. The Spanish government estimates that between 6,000 and 10,000 migrants remain stranded in Ceuta. Vox leader Santiago Abascal has called for the deportation of all migrants who arrived in late July, asserting that Ceuta is still 'invaded' due to Sanchez's perceived subservience to Morocco.
Reports indicate that the government plans to approve a decree to expedite the return of migrants from Ceuta to Morocco. This protest marks the second under the March for Dignity banner, following a demonstration in late May that attracted 40,000 participants, according to government figures.