700+ Migrants Arrive in Balearic Islands as Government Warns of Canary Islands Scenario

Balearic Islands immigration – The Balearic Islands are facing an unprecedented influx of immigrants. Since last Monday, more than 729 migrants have reached their shores, sparking concerns among local authorities. The government warns that without prompt action, the region could mirror the Canary Islands’ challenges.

Massive Arrival of Migrants in Balearic Islands

Record Numbers Reached

Since the beginning of the week, 205 individuals have landed on the Pitiusas coast. The majority, 192 migrants, arrived in Formentera, while the remaining 13 reached Cala Oliva in Santa Eulària. Wednesday saw the highest activity, with seven boats bringing in new arrivals to Formentera.

Government Response and Warnings about the Balearic Islands Immigration

Catalina Cirer, the Balearic Minister of Social Affairs, stated that on Wednesday, the Balearic Islands were the “Spanish region receiving the most boats with people on board, surpassing the Canary Islands.” She highlighted that since last Monday, over 600 immigrants have arrived via 40 vessels. Cirer acknowledged that the situation is not yet critical but warned that the islands risk becoming similar to the Canary Islands if the trend continues.

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Challenges Faced by the Balearic Authorities

Lack of Immigration Facilities

The Balearic Consell lacks dedicated immigration centres unlike other Spanish regions. Currently, only police-protected facilities are available. Cirer has called for the deportation of these migrants to the mainland, a move that may create conflicts with other regions’ centers.

Strain on Resources and Services

In Formentera, the Consell has initiated procedures to transfer authority over minors to the central government. The island has seen a dramatic increase in unaccompanied minors, from 10 last year to 95 this year. This surge has forced the island to divert resources, impacting services for local residents.

Impact on Local Communities

The Consell for Formentera emphasized that managing the influx of minors has diverted 20% of the annual budget, which is unsustainable for the island’s economy. Additionally, other islands like Mallorca and Ibiza are already overwhelmed with their own needs, making it difficult to accommodate the new arrivals.

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Balearic Islands immigration – Call for Government and EU Action

Cirer urged the national government to heed the President Prohens’ requests made during the Conference of Presidents. She also stressed the importance of involving the European Union to implement effective border controls, as the Spanish state is hesitant to manage the borders for the islands independently.

The Balearic Islands immigration surge presents significant challenges for local authorities and communities. Without coordinated efforts from the national government and the EU, the region may face escalating issues similar to those experienced in the Canary Islands. Immediate action is crucial to manage the situation and protect the welfare of both the migrants and the island residents.