Spanish Vox Leader Calls for Confiscation and Sinking of Open Arms Migrant Rescue Ship in Tenerife

Controversial Demand for Humanitarian Vessel

Santiago Abascal, the leader of Spain’s conservative Vox party, has sparked significant controversy by calling for the confiscation and sinking of the Open Arms humanitarian rescue ship. The vessel is currently docked in Tenerife, one of Spain's Canary Islands, where it plans to remain for two months to highlight the perilous Atlantic migration route. Abascal described the ship as a “slave ship,” asserting that it should be seized and destroyed.

This strong statement comes as the Open Arms organization focuses on the increasingly active and dangerous Atlantic route, which sees thousands of migrants and refugees attempting to reach the Canary Islands from West Africa. The presence of the vessel in Tenerife aims to draw international attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in this region, where many lives are lost at sea.

Open Arms' Mission and the Atlantic Route

Open Arms is a Spanish non-governmental organization (NGO) primarily known for its search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Its mission is to protect the lives of people in distress at sea, often rescuing individuals from unseaworthy boats and providing them with medical care and safe passage to a port. The organization operates under international maritime law, which mandates assisting anyone in peril on the high seas.

The Atlantic migration route to the Canary Islands has witnessed a significant increase in crossings in recent years, becoming one of the deadliest maritime routes globally. Migrants, often fleeing poverty, conflict, and instability in their home countries, undertake long and hazardous journeys in overcrowded and ill-equipped vessels. The decision by Open Arms to station a vessel in Tenerife underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and visibility along this particular route.

Political Reaction and Broader Context

Abascal's rhetoric aligns with his party's firm stance against illegal immigration and its critical view of NGOs involved in migrant rescue operations, which Vox often accuses of encouraging irregular migration. His use of the term “slave ship” is a highly charged accusation that suggests complicity in human trafficking, a common line of attack from far-right groups against humanitarian efforts.

The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from other political figures in Spain. Félix Bolaños, a minister in the Spanish government, publicly condemned Abascal’s comments, labeling them as “verbal violence.” This political clash highlights the deeply divided opinions within Spain regarding migration policies and the role of humanitarian organizations in addressing the crisis.

What happens next

The Open Arms vessel is expected to remain in Tenerife for the planned two-month period, continuing its mission to raise awareness about the Atlantic route and potentially conducting rescue operations. The political debate surrounding migration and the activities of NGOs like Open Arms is likely to intensify, particularly given the ongoing challenges of managing migratory flows and ensuring humanitarian aid. The Spanish government and international bodies will continue to monitor the situation, balancing border control with the obligation to save lives at sea.