The Uniqueness of Ceuta and Melilla: Why Spain Cannot Give Them Up

Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish enclaves in North Africa, have often been the subject of debate regarding their rightful ownership. This article delves into why these territories remain under Spanish control and why Morocco cannot take them over. It also explains the historical context and the current perspectives of the people who live in these areas.

Historical Context

Ceuta and Melilla have a long and complex history that does not trace back to the historical claims of Morocco. Both territories have been under Spanish rule for centuries, with Ceuta reclaiming its status in 1640 and Melilla in 1497. The Visigoth kingdom a Germanic tribe that occupied parts of the Iberian Peninsula in the 5th century initially governed these regions, but they were later ldquo;reconqueredrdquo; by the Portuguese and Spanish, ultimately leading to their Spanish rule.

Forced Integration and Current Status

The idea that Morocco can take back control of Ceuta and Melilla is erroneous because these territories never belonged to Morocco in the first place. The people living in these areas are firmly rooted in their Spanish identity and have no intention of becoming subjects of the King of Morocco, Mohamed VI. Those who oppose the Moroccan claims argue that Ceuta and Melilla have been part of Spain for over 500 years, which is a much longer period than many modern countries have existed.

Comparison with Other Territories

Similar to the case of Gibraltar, which is also an enigmatic territory under British control despite the Spanish claim over its sovereignty, Ceuta and Melilla represent the broader geopolitical reality where historical inheritance and contemporary identity often clash. Just like how Turkey controls the European side of the country that was once part of Greek Byzantines in the XV century, Spain has held on to Ceuta and Melilla for over five centuries. These territories have evolved through treaties, invasions, or force, forming the current political landscape.

Global Perspective

It is important to recognize that the world map might look very different if every country were to give back what they had taken through treaties, invasions, or force. However, the reality is that Ceuta and Melilla have become integral parts of Spain, and their people have identified with the Spanish nation. This strong sense of identity makes it unlikely that these territories will ever be returned to Morocco or any other nation.

Moreover, the argument that Gibraltar should be returned to Spain is similarly contentious due to the signed treaty of Utrecht, which established the UK's sovereignty over the territory. The United Nations has repeatedly called on the UK to decolonize Gibraltar, but the Spanish government's position remains firm. This situation parallels that of Ceuta and Melilla and underscores the complex nature of territorial disputes in the modern world.

In conclusion, Ceuta and Melilla remain under Spanish rule because they have been part of Spain since before Morocco existed, and the people living there are committed to their Spanish identity. The historical and political context, along with the current perspectives of the residents, all support the continuation of Spain's sovereignty in these regions.