The management of migration in the Canary Islands continues to generate tensions between the main political parties
Pedro Sánchez maintains that his government is already working on solutions to mitigate the crisis. The PSOE claims that current policies seek to balance the distribution of migrants to other autonomous communities. However, the Popular Party criticises the socialist management, arguing that the measures are insufficient and do not address the root of the problem, such as the control of migration routes and agreements with countries of origin.
The Basque Country has also advocated a coordinated and supportive approach, proposing a one-off distribution of migrant minors based on objective criteria such as population, GDP per capita and unemployment rate.
Meanwhile, Catalonia has shown reluctance to the central government's proposal on the mandatory distribution of migrant minors. The Generalitat has requested that Catalonia's uniqueness in the reception of children be recognised and that unilateral imposition be avoided, demanding clear and transparent criteria that do not overburden certain communities.
From the beginning of 2025 The Canary Islands have seen a significant increase in the number of migrants arriving on their shores. In the first few days of the year, more than 1.500 people have arrived in boats such as cayucos and pateras, highlighting the magnitude of the phenomenon. This increase has caused concern both among the population and among humanitarian organisations, as the pressure on the reception resources remains high, while the urgent need to manage the situation persists, with no "light at the end of the tunnel" yet to be seen.
