Breach of human rights in Europe: cruel and degrading treatment of illegal immigrants at the border between Spain and Morocco

6.11.2013

Question for written answer E-012538-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
María Muñiz De Urquiza (S&D) , Raimon Obiols (S&D) , Sergio Gutiérrez Prieto (S&D) , Juan Fernando López Aguilar (S&D)

The Government of Spain has installed razor wire on the border fence between Spain and Morocco at Melilla to prevent illegal immigration. This razor wire, technically referred to as ‘concertina wire’, causes injuries to individuals who try to reach Europe through this border.

This element of the border installation was withdrawn by the previous Spanish Government in 2007.

The Spanish security forces responsible for border control have warned that this concertina wire is ineffective as a deterrent to entry into Europe but that it is, however, extremely harmful to individuals who try to cross the border.

Many citizens’ associations and political groupings have called for the immediate withdrawal of this razor wire on the grounds that it constitutes cruel and degrading treatment, harms the safety of individuals and causes avoidable and unnecessary injury.

— Does the Commission believe that it is acceptable for these practices to be used in Europe?

— Is the Commission prepared to require the Government of Spain to withdraw the concertina wire immediately?

— Does EU policy to combat illegal immigration and strengthen borders provide for the use of this type of material?

— Had the Commission already been warned that concertina wire was going to be installed?

— Does the Commission believe that the installation of this concertina wire is an unacceptable method to combat illegal immigration into Europe?

— Does the Commission not believe that its installation runs counter to EU policy on promoting and protecting human rights?

OJ C 230, 17/07/2014