Spanish parliament advances citizenship for Sahrawi population
Spain's lower house overwhelmingly approved a bill to grant citizenship to Western Saharans born under Spanish colonial rule, potentially benefiting over 100,000 people. The decision is seen as a historic step for stateless Sahrawis, but it comes amid strained relations with Morocco following a mass migration incident in Ceuta. The bill now moves to the Senate for final approval.
The measure, which passed with 168 votes in favor and 31 against, provides a three-year filing window, extendable by one year, for individuals born under Spanish rule from 1884 to 1976. Children of successful applicants will have five years after their parents' registration to obtain citizenship themselves.
Additionally, the legislation creates an accelerated residency-to-citizenship pathway requiring only two years of legal stay in Spain, aligning Sahrawis with citizens of certain Latin American nations and other designated groups. This advancement occurs amid strained Spanish-Moroccan relations, as Rabat has firmly rejected accusations regarding the July migrant surge into Ceuta.
For stateless Sahrawis residing in Spain, this law could finally provide legal identity, passports, and full civic participation, potentially transforming their daily lives and long-term security. Descendants may also gain a pathway to European citizenship. However, the move could further complicate Madrid's diplomatic relationship with Rabat, potentially influencing future cooperation on migration control and regional stability in the Western Sahara dispute.