Italy has decided to extend the suspension of its open-border arrangements with Spain for another 15 days following a surge in migrant arrivals to Ceuta, Spain’s territory in North Africa.

The Italian Interior Ministry said the decision was taken because the conditions that led to the suspension of the arrangements remain in place.

Italy’s right-wing government suspended the arrangements with Spain on August 1, citing concerns that migrants arriving in Ceuta could continue their journey to Italy. The measure was initially due to expire today.

Spain also extends border checks

Following Italy’s decision, Spain announced that it would also extend checks on passengers arriving from Italy by air and sea for another 15 days.

The Spanish Interior Ministry said the checks, which were introduced on August 8 and had initially been planned to remain in place for one month, would be extended for an additional 15 days.

The measures effectively maintain tighter controls on travel between the two countries despite both being part of the Schengen Area, which normally allows passport-free movement across participating European countries.

Migration tensions fuel political debate

The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has pursued a tough policy on irregular migration and is facing pressure from the newly formed far-right party Futuro Nazionale ahead of elections expected next year.

The center-left opposition has criticized the decision to reintroduce and extend border controls, arguing that the measure could damage relations with Madrid.

Opposition parties also said there was no evidence that migrants arriving in Ceuta would subsequently travel to Italy.

Schengen rules under renewed scrutiny

The reciprocal border controls between Italy and Spain have also revived debate over the functioning of the Schengen Area and the conditions under which member states can temporarily reintroduce border checks.

The latest extension means that controls on travel between the two countries will remain in place for at least another 15 days as concerns over irregular migration continue to shape European border policies. (ILKHA)