TERRITORIAL DISPUTES BETWEEN SPAIN AND MOROCCO: GEOPOLITICAL TENSIONS AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS ON EUROPE – A CASE STUDY OF SPAIN
Keywords:
Spain–Morocco Relations, Western Sahara Dispute, Geopolitical Tensions, Strategic Border Management, NATO and EU Security, Migration Diplomacy, Economic Implications, Energy Cooperation, EU–Africa Trade Maritime Security, Bilateral Diplomacy, Regional Stability, External Powers in North Africa, Migration Pressures on Europe, Strait of Gibraltar, European Union Foreign Policy, Cross-Border Trade, Fisheries and Agricultural AgreementsAbstract
This article explores the geopolitical tensions and economic interests in Europe through a case study of Spain, focusing on territorial disputes with Morocco over Ceuta, Melilla, Perejil Island, and maritime claims near the Canary Islands. Employing a multidisciplinary approach—combining historical context, international law, and power politics—the study examines the impact of these disputes on bilateral relations, EU policy, migration management, trade, and regional security. Spain’s unique position as a geopolitical bridge between Europe and North Africa places it at the center of managing the wider fallout, including recent developments like Spain’s recognition of Morocco’s 2022 autonomy plan for Western Sahara and evolving EU-Morocco cooperation. Through analyses of crises, migration flows, and security responses, the research highlights how these tensions affect European stability. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for the EU, advocating enhanced dialogue, regional integration, and improved border governance.
