A surge of migrants crossing into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in late July has contributed to rising support for far-right parties in Europe, despite a significant overall decline in irregular migration arrivals, according to European Union Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner.

More than 72,000 people entered Ceuta from neighboring Morocco during the episode, though most subsequently left the territory. Spanish authorities estimate that around 12,000 migrants, including minors, remain in the small enclave. Brunner acknowledged the drop in migrant numbers across Europe but emphasized that the highly visible images of the Ceuta crossings have overshadowed this progress.

“These images fuel the far right,” Brunner said, underscoring the political sensitivities surrounding migration. He stressed the importance of swiftly returning migrants to their countries of origin “to show that we have control” over migration flows.

The remarks followed a recent proposal by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for an emergency response framework designed to counter “engineered and weaponised” mass movements of migrants. Brunner indicated that specifics of the proposed framework would be discussed at the upcoming EU Council meeting, while noting the priority remains on fully implementing existing agreements.

The issue of migration has remained a contentious political factor throughout Europe since the influx of more than one million people—many fleeing the Syrian conflict—in 2015. That wave helped bolster far-right and nationalist parties, prompting several governments to adopt more stringent policies focused on deterrence and returns.

In addition to the situation in Ceuta, Brunner addressed the controversial decision by the European Commission to facilitate dialogue between EU member states and Taliban representatives. These talks aim to establish mechanisms for returning Afghans convicted of crimes in Europe. Human rights organizations have criticized the move, arguing that engaging with the Taliban legitimizes the regime, endangers Afghan individuals, and undermines fundamental EU values.

In response, Brunner defended the Commission’s approach, stating, “They are murderers; they’re criminals. And I think it’s in the interest of the European Union and the European people, of course, to return them.” He acknowledged concerns about the safety of deportees but emphasized that protecting European security remains the paramount objective.

The Commissioner’s comments highlight ongoing challenges within the EU as it balances security considerations, human rights obligations, and political pressures amid complex migration dynamics.