Italy Temporarily Suspends Schengen Agreement with Spain Over Ceuta Migrant Crisis

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced on Friday that Italy has temporarily suspended the Schengen Agreement with Spain. He described the measure as inevitable.

The decision was made in connection with the migrant crisis in Ceuta. The suspension means that border controls between the two countries may be temporarily reintroduced. This is a procedure allowed under the agreement for exceptional circumstances, enabling member states to respond to unexpected situations.

Tajani stressed that this step is unavoidable given the current situation. He noted that the decision was taken specifically because of the migrant crisis in Ceuta, which has created an urgent need for action.

In his statement on Friday, the Italian foreign minister confirmed that the measure is temporary. He also emphasised that the decision applies to relations with Spain and is linked to migration pressure in Ceuta. The move aims to mitigate the impact of the difficulties that have arisen.

Tajani said on Friday that the measure is inevitable and called for understanding of why it is necessary. He did not specify how long the decision would remain in force, but stressed that it is only a temporary solution. This is one of the cases in which Italy has used the option under the Schengen Agreement to temporarily restrict free movement between member states.