Official announcements from the Spanish government or reputable news sources

Spain Braces for Surge as 346 Migrants Arrive in Canary Islands, Up to 150,000 Expected

Aug 23, 2024, 03:44 PM

The number of migrants reaching the Canary Islands has more than doubled in the first 7.5 months of 2024, prompting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to announce plans to visit West Africa. The Canary Islands have become a key entry point for migrants seeking a better life in Europe, with 346 migrants arriving in a single day. Spanish authorities are concerned about a potential surge of up to 150,000 more migrants from Africa this year. The regional government is already struggling to care for over 5,500 unaccompanied minors. Prime Minister Sánchez met with Fernando Clavijo, the regional president of the Canary Islands, to discuss the crisis.