In a letter addressed to the Spanish Minister of the Interior published today, Commissioner Mijatović urges the authorities to conduct an independent, full and effective investigation into the events leading to the deaths of more than 20 migrants who attempted to cross the fence between Nador, in Morocco, and Melilla on 24 June.
“Such an investigation should also look at the wider circumstances and policies related to Spain’s migration co-operation with Morocco, with a view to preventing future tragedies and ensuring that any policies in place do not violate human rights standards,” says the Commissioner.
Stressing that border control measures, including in co-operation with other states, must not directly or indirectly contribute to human rights violations, the Commissioner requests information from the Spanish government concerning the steps it intends to take to ensure that co-operation in the field of migration prioritises human rights in full compliance with Spain’s international obligations.