Church of Morocco Provides Assistance to Returnees from Ceuta, Calls for Addressing Migration Roots

The Church of Morocco has been actively supporting returnees from Ceuta, a Spanish city located on the northern coast of Africa, amid ongoing migration challenges. The situation, though relatively calm between Morocco and Ceuta, has seen an unprecedented wave of migrants attempting to cross into Spanish territory. While many have been repatriated, families remain in areas near the border, anxiously awaiting news of their children’s fate.

Archbishop Tangier of Tangier highlighted that Morocco is not a country plagued by famine or extreme poverty. Instead, it is experiencing significant economic growth. However, he noted that the benefits of this growth are not evenly distributed, particularly among young people who struggle to find suitable employment. This economic disparity, he explained, contributes to the push factors driving migration.

The Archbishop also addressed the perception of Europe, which is often portrayed in media and social media as a land of solutions to all problems. This image, he said, leads many young people to risk their lives in hopes of a better future, despite the reality that may not align with these expectations.

The Catholic Church in Morocco has long been involved in supporting immigrants, especially those from sub-Saharan Africa. Through medical, social, and legal services, as well as humanitarian projects, the Church collaborates with local authorities to assist the most vulnerable groups within Moroccan society, including children living on the streets.

Archbishop Tangier echoed Pope Francis’ call for peace- and justice-based solutions to the migration crisis. He described this as a prophecy that places both the Church and political leaders in shared responsibility. Emphasizing the need to respect human dignity, he urged against treating migrants as mere figures or tools in political conflicts. Everyone, he said, has a story, a dream, and a right to be treated with dignity.

In his message to Moroccan youth, Archbishop Tangier urged them not to be swayed by the idealized image of life in Europe. He encouraged them to recognize the opportunities available in Morocco and to build their future through legitimate means. He also called for strengthened dialogue and cooperation between Morocco and the European Union to address the root causes of migration, in the interest of common development and human dignity.

The Church, he affirmed, will continue its humanitarian mission alongside those in need, placing the human being at the center of every initiative, far from political or ideological calculations. This commitment reflects a deep concern for mercy, justice, and the well-being of all people, as seen in the biblical call to love our neighbor as ourselves.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)