‘Concertina’ barbed wire fences in Ceuta and Melilla

21.11.2014

Question for written answer E-009623-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Louis Michel (ALDE) , Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz (ALDE)

The ‘concertina’ barbed wire border fences installed by the Spanish authorities in Ceuta and Melilla have caused serious injuries to, and endanger the lives of, persons trying to climb over the barriers. The use of barbed wire to discourage immigrants from crossing the barriers is not only inefficient but disproportionate and a clear human rights violation. No end can justify such means.

We believe that it must be a priority for the EU to manage its borders in a well-balanced way that respects the human rights and physical integrity of migrants.

In the light of this, how does the Commission plan to prevent the use of such barbed wire barriers such that the human rights of immigrants are ensured?