The Mauritania’s security forces have been systematically abusing migrants from other African countries, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW).
The rights group alleges that abuses have worsened under a deal with the European Union (EU) and Spain, aimed at curbing dangerous sea crossings to the Canary Islands.
Allegations of Abuse
The 142-page HRW report documents cases of rape, torture, extortion, and racism carried out by Mauritania’s military, border officials, and security personnel.
Migrants and asylum seekers reported being insulted, detained in poor conditions, and discriminated against because of their skin color.
Victims interviewed were mostly black Africans from Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. HRW said women and children were also among those subjected to rights violations.
EU Partnership and Migration Control
In 2024, Mauritania signed a new €210m ($244m) migration partnership with the EU to curb irregular migration. Nearly 47,000 people made the perilous Atlantic crossing from Mauritania to Spain’s Canary Islands last year alone.
HRW claims that Spanish security personnel witnessed some of the abuses, raising questions about European complicity.
Mauritania’s Response
Mauritania rejected the HRW findings, saying it has taken recent steps to protect migrant rights. The European Commission insisted its agreement with Mauritania is “anchored” in the protection of human rights.
HRW acknowledged some improvements in migration reforms but urged stronger accountability, better training for security staff, and an independent process to investigate alleged violations.
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