New York

28 June 2022

Note to Correspondents: Morocco/Spain 

We are shocked by the violence on the Nador-Melilla border on Friday which resulted in the deaths of dozens of migrants and asylum seekers during an attempted crossing from Morocco into Spain. 

The use of excessive force is unacceptable, and the human rights and dignity of people on the move must be prioritized by States. 

The obligations of States under international law and international human rights and refugee law must be upheld. This avoidable loss of life should be immediately investigated, and urgent medical assistance provided to all those injured and affected, regardless of their status. 

The human rights of people on the move, including their right to seek asylum,must be fully respected. We call on both States to work towards finding durable solutions for people on the move in line with the Global Compact for Migration and the Global Compact on Refugees.