Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has begun his second visit to West Africa this year, aiming to address migration issues affecting the Canary Islands and counter Russian influence in the Sahel region.
The migration flow to the Canary Islands has surged by 154% this year, with 21,620 individuals arriving in the first seven months. This increase has put a strain on the island’s resources, prompting local authorities to consider using military camps or tents to manage the influx, especially with the Atlantic Ocean’s calmer conditions expected to bring even more migrants.
Spanish officials are concerned that up to 150,000 additional migrants from Africa might attempt the dangerous crossing in the near future. Nearly half of these migrants are from Mali, driven by conflict and economic instability, which is aggravated by the involvement of the Russian Wagner Group.
Sanchez’s visit is focused on enhancing cooperation with Mauritania, Senegal, and Gambia, which are major departure points for migrant boats. Mauritania and Senegal also share borders with Mali. Spanish law enforcement has been actively working in West Africa to strengthen border control and provide support to these critical migration origin points.
Spain Considers Renewed Engagement in Mali
Spain is exploring the possibility of reestablishing its role in Mali following the end of the EU military mission there last May. Although the closure was supported by some European countries, Spain is discussing bilateral military assistance with Bamako. A senior Spanish military official emphasized, “Maintaining a presence in the region is vital to prevent Russian forces from filling the void left by the mission’s end.”
The proposed Spanish mission may continue the training efforts initiated by the previous European mission.
Spain’s Defence Ministry has confirmed ongoing talks about collaboration with Mali but has not provided additional details.
In light of the recent increase in migration, Spain is advocating for more attention to the Sahel region from the EU and NATO.
Experts argue that addressing poverty and the impacts of climate change is crucial to resolving the Sahel’s issues. “Relying solely on military aid is not effective; a different kind of support is needed,” one expert stated.
The ongoing conflict in the Sahel has created a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing over 3.1 million individuals from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger as of July.
Economic difficulties in Mali have intensified since the junta came to power in 2020, exacerbating conflict, unemployment, and the impact of climate change on agriculture. These factors contribute to the migration crisis, as many individuals seek better opportunities elsewhere.
One migrant who arrived in the Canaries from Mauritania in 2020 has since gained citizenship and aspires to join the military. Currently, he assists other migrant children at a center, where a significant number are from Mali. He shared that the ongoing conflict and instability in his home country drive many to undertake dangerous journeys in search of a better future.